Jill Starbuck
The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck
Have you noticed that you don’t seem to drink as much water during the dry winter months? We don’t seem to get as thirsty because the weather is cooler and our body temperatures are lower. We aren’t working up a sweat as often. However, water is essential to our survival, no matter what time of the year it is. The winter months may just take more effort to remember.
The winter months often put us at a higher risk of dehydration, due to drier conditions. Signs of dehydration include feeling thirsty and having dark-colored urine. While the debate continues as to how much water a person needs on a daily basis, there is no argument that it is needed. Here are some ways that water can help you battle dry months:
• Refreshes your skin. With furnaces constantly running, winter months are known to zap our skin of moisture, making it tough and dry.
• Rehydrates your body. Did you know that we lose several ounces of water daily simply from breathing? This amount goes up when we have a cough associated with a cold. When we drink less water in the winter, we are putting our bodies at risk of dehydration.
• Increases energy. Water channels through our body, pushing nutrients to appropriate cells.
• Cleanses your body. Water flushes out toxins from vital organs.
• Promotes digestion. When nutrients flow properly within your body, you feel good all over.
These are just a few of the benefits water brings to dry winter months. Remember that water is important all of the time. Stay tuned for future articles on proper amounts of water and ways to ensure that you drink enough.
