Obesity
Food
The Importance of Staying Hydrated When You’re Trying to Manage Your Weight
Drinking enough water has more benefits than you might think.
min read time
You probably know that the foods you eat and how much physical activity you get can affect your weight. But what you might not know is that staying hydrated can also be a factor.
Research shows that better hydration is linked to a reduction in body weight. There’s also an association between poor hydration and a higher BMI, according to a study which notes that people with obesity need to drink more water than those without obesity.
Staying hydrated is important for all sorts of reasons – it can affect our physical performance, our cognitive function, even our mood. If you don’t always drink enough water and want to build new hydration habits, here are four Microsteps that can help. As always, consult with your care team for the treatment and condition management practices that are best for you.
Make drinking a glass of water part of your morning routine.
For example, have a glass of water while brewing your morning coffee or tea, as you pick out your clothes for the day, or as you get your kids ready for school.
Swap one sugary beverage a day with sparkling water.
Choosing a sugar-free option keeps you hydrated in a healthier way.
Whenever you go to get a snack, drink a glass of water first.
This strategy, known as temptation bundling, links an action you want to do with an action you need to do. This will help you stay properly hydrated, and you may realize you were thirsty, not hungry.
Bring a reusable water bottle with you when you leave home so you can hydrate on the go.
Having water when you’re out and about will help you avoid the temptation of sodas and other sugary drinks.
