The biggest obstacle to weight loss is not lack of willpower. Instead, it’s a combination of variables that make it difficult. Both biological factors and mental triggers contribute to the development of unhealthy eating and fitness habits. Dehydration is a biological factor that can disrupt weight loss because when you’re feeling drained and depleted, you’re more likely to eat sugary snacks and other unhealthy food.
Sadly, dehydration is a huge problem that many people ignore. Your body requires water and it will trick you into eating to get it. But the sad part about it is that if your body has begun to resort to this strategy, it is suffering and you’re stressing your body and immune system.
That means it’s more likely you will become ill or develop a serious disorder because your body can’t function without adequate water. Nutrients can’t travel through your bloodstream. Even worse than this, dehydration can increase your risk of heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, “This condition causes blood vessels to narrow and blood to thicken, raising risk for blood clots.” Imagine dying from a heart attack caused by dehydration, a highly preventable condition. It’s just not worth it. So, drink more water.
I realize most people don’t even drink plain water on a regular basis. I understand water can seem boring compared to all of the delicious beverages there are to choose from. But truly, it’s the perfect beverage for your body. The more you make yourself drink water instead, the more you’ll get used to only drinking water. Coffee and tea are still healthy beverages, but they shouldn’t be a substitute.
Here are some strategies that can help increase your water intake:
Find a cute glass water bottle
Glass bottles are BPA free and don’t add that “plastic taste” to your water. Plus, it naturally keeps it cool longer.
I like the water bottles that have the silicone wraps that protect it from breaking so easily if dropped.
I encourage you to find a cute one in your favorite color (I love pink!).
Add lemon, lime or mint
Sometimes you just need a little flavor to help you out. These are the best choices because they don’t add any sugar.
They also add vitamin C and other nutrients that are beneficial to your body.
Challenge yourself!
Challenge yourself to drink at least 24 ounces of water before drinking any other flavored beverages. Of course, make sure those beverages don’t contain any sugar or artificial sweeteners. Instead, use stevia or a little honey.
I know it can be hard to make yourself drink enough water, but it’s worth it. At first, you may have to make yourself drink more and it may seem as if you’re forcing yourself, but after a few days to a week to drinking more water, you’ll begin to crave just pure water. So go ahead, hydrate yourself and set yourself up for better health and weight loss.