by David Nadeau

Everyone knows that water is essential for survival, but what most people don’t realize is that constant hydration is an important factor in staying healthy.  That means not waiting until you are thirsty or dehydrated to drink!

Maintaining hydration is crucial for many reasons, including the regulation of body temperature, the prevention of infections, and the deliverance of nutrients to body cells. (Harvard.edu) Not to mention that maintaining hydration improves the quality of your sleep.  Drinking fluids maintains the function of every system in your body, including your heart, brain, and muscles.  It is easy to go through the day downing coffee or tea and not thinking about water until you are in workout mode. However, hydration should be something that is apart of your life even when you are not thirsty. If you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle, drinking fluids throughout the day is key. So, there are steps you can take if you find drinking healthy fluids habitually a struggle.

Here are a few tips:

1. Make space on your desk and designate a cup/glass that you refill with water throughout the day. Choose a container that brings you a bit of joy and make it part of your workspace motif.
2. Find hydrating drinks you love! We are huge fans of recoup because it has the hydration benefits of sustainably-harvested, organic tree water (46 bioactive minerals, nutrients and amino acids) with a delicious splash of juice and pressed ginger.  The ginger kicks it an energizing kick, as well as promotes daily wellness and muscle recovery after a workout.
3. Keep healthy fluids with you throughout the day. Stock your fridge with grab and go drinks so you can easily have something in the car or on the train.
4. Pack a collapsible water bottle in your purse or bag so you never go without.
5. Drink fluids before, during, and after a workout. Never start a workout dehydrated. FamilyDoctor.org
6. When you’re feeling hungry, drink fluids. Thirst is often confused with hunger. True hunger will not be satisfied by drinking fluids. Simply staying hydrated may also contribute to a healthy weight-loss plan. Some research suggests that drinking water can help you feel full.
7. If you have trouble remembering to drink, then drink on a schedule. For example, drink water when you wake up, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and when you go to bed. Or, drink fluids at the beginning of each hour.

These are just simple ways to keep yourself hydrated!

If you are looking for a really unique alternative to sports drinks or plain water, be sure to give recoup a try. We use sustainably harvested organic maple tree water.  Maple water or "sap" contains electrolytes including calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese and potassium along with other minerals and amino acids. Recoup has no processed sugar, but we use a small amount of organic wildflower honey.  Small amounts of sugar can help speed hydration and honey has a lower glycemic index than processed sugars, making it a healthier option.

Flavors in order: Watermelon + Blood Orange, Cucumber + Lemon, Pineapple + Coconut

According health authorities, all should be drinking 2 liters, or half a gallon of fluids daily (Healthline.com)  Only drinking fluids when you feel thirsty will not get you there. However, using these simple steps you can stay on track!