When the temperatures drop, staying hydrated can easily slip to the back of your mind. You might not feel thirsty, but that doesn’t mean your body doesn’t need water. Winter air can still cause dehydration, and dry indoor heating further contributes to fluid loss. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting workouts, and keeping your metabolism in check!
Here are some hydration tips to ensure you’re staying properly hydrated throughout the colder months:
1. Start Your Day with Hydration
Making hydration part of your morning routine is a simple yet very effective way to kick-start your day! Begin your morning with a glass of lemon water. It not only helps you hydrate but also provides detoxing benefits, helping to flush out toxins and support digestion. Alternatively, start with an electrolyte drink to rehydrate after a night’s sleep, replenishing the minerals your body needs for optimal function. You can easily do this while you're waiting for your coffee (or tea) to brew!
2. Warm Up with Bone Broth
When it’s cold outside, a steaming cup of bone broth can be incredibly satisfying, whether you're sitting at your desk, or out on a chilly adventure. It’s full of collagen and amino acids, offering a hydrating, nutrient-packed option to keep you warm and fueled. Bone broth is also rich in electrolytes, making it a great choice for replenishing lost fluids!
3. Electrolytes Are Key
Even in winter, you’re losing fluids through sweat, breath, and urination. To make up for this, electrolyte-rich drinks can help balance your hydration levels. Coconut water, mineral water, or even an electrolyte powder like BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die added to water are great ways to keep your minerals in check. Incorporate electrolytes into your routine, especially during or after exercise, to maintain hydration and prevent fatigue.
4. Hydrate with Food
Winter meals often consist of hearty dishes, which can also help keep you hydrated. Vegetables like cucumbers, celery, and leafy greens are packed with water, as are fruits like watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, oranges and cantaloupe. Add these to soups, salads, or smoothies to increase your fluid intake without even thinking about it.
5. Set Hydration Goals or Reminders
It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re inside staying warm or distracted by the hustle of winter activities. Set hydration goals like making sure you drink 20 oz. of water before you start your workday, or hitting a midday water goal. you can also use recurring reminders on your phone to stay consistent! These small efforts can ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.
6. Hydrate Before, During, and After Workouts
Even though it might be cold, hydration during workouts remains important. Your body still loses fluids, whether you’re doing intense weight training or taking a brisk winter walk, run or hike. Make sure you hydrate before hitting the gym, during your session, and afterward to maintain performance and promote recovery. A warm, electrolyte-rich beverage like bone broth or tea can be especially satisfying post-workout.
7. Be Mindful of Indoor Dryness
The heat indoors can dry out the air, leaving your skin and respiratory system feeling parched. Combat this by drinking extra water throughout the day. Using a humidifier in your living space can also help keep the air from getting too dry, supporting both your hydration and skin health during the winter months!
Remember, Hydration Is Year-Round!
Even though winter might make it easier to forget about hydration, it’s just as important as ever. By incorporating warm drinks like tea and bone broth, starting your day with a hydration goal, and keeping your electrolytes in check, you’ll support your body’s needs all season long!