The Importance of Staying Hydrated Beyond Just Water
Proper hydration affects every system in your body, from cognitive function to physical performance to digestion. Yet many people walk around in a state of mild chronic dehydration. The color of your urine is the simplest indicator. Pale straw color means well hydrated. Dark yellow means drink more water. You do not need to count glasses obsessively. About twenty percent of your daily water intake comes from food, especially fruits and vegetables. Soups, smoothies, and herbal teas all contribute to hydration. Caffeinated beverages provide net hydration despite the mild diuretic effect. The advice to drink before you feel thirsty is overstated. For most healthy people, thirst is a reliable signal. Carry a water bottle as a visual reminder throughout the day.
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