Handout E-2: Keeping Well-Hydrated

Our bodies are made mostly of water. It stands to reason, then, that we need to drink lots of this precious fluid. It is sometimes recommended that each adult-when not exercising heavily should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. When active or hot, we need more. Some of this liquid need can be met through drinking other kinds of beverages. However, coffee and sodas may have caffeine or other additives which do not help with our bodies' water needs. Many people find that dehydration leads to headaches. Others find that stopping for a moment to get a glass of water helps them to pace them selves. Those who are inclined to smoke cigarettes or nibble nervously on foods which are not nutritious find that substituting water for nibbling can appease the nervous appetite.

Consider the following strategies to increase your water consumption:

(1) Have a special cup which you enjoy. Keep it filled with water at your desk or other work-space.
(2) Remind yourself to drink a few sips of water at specific times of the day.
(3) Get a glass of water each time you are at the sink, washing your hands or helping a child.
(4) Flavor your water with a slice of lemon or orange.
(5) Consider the cost of purchasing beverages such as coffee or sodas. Try to encourage yourself to drink water instead by keeping a jar for coins that you save from not drinking the more expensive beverages. Buy yourself a reward!

Handout E-3 | Handout E-1 | Module 3 | Index

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