Are you staying hydrated in winter? The Eatwell Guide recommends drinking 6-8 glasses of fluid each day. This can include water, low fat milk and sugar free drinks. Tea and coffee is also included too.

Whilst this may be achievable in summer when it’s hot, staying hydrated in winter can be much more difficult. Studies have shown that we tend to be up to 40% less thirsty in winter!However, the consequences of dehydration can be damaging to our health and wellbeing. Therefore, it is important to make an extra effort with regards to staying hydrated in winter. Keep reading below to discover the importance of hydration and top tips to up your water game!

Dehydration is Less Noticeable in Winter

In the summer, the hot weather can make us sweat, making dehydration much more noticeable. However, in winter, perspiration turns to water vapour very quickly. Additionally, wearing extra layers of clothing can cause our bodies to become dehydrated without us knowing. Therefore, it is vital to keep drinking water through the day to ensure we are staying hydrated in winter.

Staying Hydrated in Winter Helps us Stay Warm

Our bodies use water to help maintain our core body temperature. Dehydration can cause our core body temperatures can drop. Therefore, the benefits of staying hydrated in winter are two fold. We stay hydrated and we keep warm when it's cold outside!

Weight Maintenance and Loss

The cold weather can often lead us to exercise less and eat more. Weight gain because of this is often further exacerbated by not staying hydrated through winter.Being hydrated enables our bodies to be more efficient at breaking down fats and converting them to energy. Looking to achieve healthy weight loss? Being mindful of how hydrated you are may assist you in your healthy weight loss journey.

Top Tips for Staying Hydrated in Winter

• Keep water in your line of sight! Keep a water bottle on your desk or put a glass next to the kitchen sink to remind you keep drinking.
• Eat foods that have a high water content such as soups, salads or fruit like melon to keep your water intake topped up.
• Always have a glass of water next to you at meal times.
• Set yourself a reminder! An alert on your phone can remind yourself to top up your water bottle.
• Don't like the taste of plain water? Drinking sparkling water or adding a slice of lemon, lime or cucumber makes water taste extra refreshing.

Now you know the importance of staying hydrated in winter, you may be more motivated to top up your water bottle.However, it is important to be mindful of any extra calories you may be consuming through fluids. Make sure to limit your intake of caffeinated sugary drinks, fruit juice and alcohol. These all contain hidden or free sugars which can lead to the over consumption of calories. By sticking to water, you can be comfortable in the knowledge that you are staying hydrated whilst progressing with your weight loss journey!You can head to the NHS page on Water, drinks and your health to learn more about choosing healthier drink options.Looking for some extra support? Visit our Get Started Page to find out more about how we can support your weight loss with one of our free programmes.MORE: STAY ACTIVE IN WINTER: 9 HINTS AND TIPS.