If there is one New Year's resolution worth sticking to, it's hydration! Focusing on your water intake as well as other ways to stay hydrated is super important for your overall health. We love getting the most out of our hydration efforts, and that is why we are taking a look at how to hydrate your skin from the inside out.
It's More Than Just Drinking Water
Hydrating from the inside out is about getting enough water in your body to keep your skin hydrated and your organs functioning properly. Not to mention, it's the best way to prevent the effects of dehydration such as headaches, constipation, dry mouth, and lethargy.
Drinking water is key, but you need to also keep your body hydrated from the inside out. One of the first things you can do is make sure that you are incorporating hydrating foods as well. Here are a few examples:
- Watermelon contains 92 percent water by weight and is an excellent source of vitamins A and C. It's also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects when eaten regularly, which makes it great for people who suffer from conditions like arthritis or gout.
- Spinach is 88 percent water by weight, making it one of the most hydrating greens around! Eating spinach can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels while boosting energy levels—especially if you're active or live in a hot climate (you'll sweat more).
- Avocados are 87 percent water by weight, so they are super hydrating too! Just one avocado has 130 milligrams of potassium—more than half our daily recommended amount—and just under 20 grams of total carbohydrate content per 100 grams serving size (so not too much sugar). This makes avocados an excellent choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake as well as anyone trying to lose weight since they don't contain any added fats beyond what nature provided them with originally (therefore no trans fats either!).
The Importance of Hydration For Your Skin
Let's look at the importance of hydration for your skin and how staying hydrated can contribute to healthier looking skin. First off, hydrated skin is healthy skin (for the most part). As the largest organ of the body, the skin has its own hydration system that gets its nutrients, water, and minerals (electrolytes) from the blood vessels in your body. The outer layer of your skin, also known as your skin's microbiome, retains water and electrolytes that protect your skin cells from oxidative damage and environmental pollutants. So by keeping your skin and cells hydrated, you are protecting your skin's natural barrier.
Is H2O Enough?
While most of us know that we need to drink water, the amount of water we actually need is often underestimated. In fact, it may be one of the most under-considered factors in good health. Drinking enough clean, fresh water is essential for everything from metabolism and digestion to kidney function and elimination; cognitive function (including memory); muscle tone; weight management; mood balance; joint lubrication; skin elasticity; sleep quality — even heart health!
But as you may know, upping your water intake simply isn't enough. Especially when it comes to knowing how to hydrate skin from the inside out. Proper hydration would not be complete without the help of essential electrolytes. And while there are natural ways to replenish your electrolytes through food, it's not always easy to make sure you get all the nutrients your body needs. The best way to know you are staying hydrated is through sugar-free electrolyte powder mixes (sugar-free because we want electrolytes, not added sugars).
Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your body's hydration needs:
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Download a Hydration App: Downloading a hydration app to help track your intake is a great idea. The best ones have big buttons on the screen that are easy, free, and quick to use. They also allow you to log how much water or other liquid you drink out of each bottle, which means you can see how much you've had over time and add in any extra cups of tea or coffee if necessary. Some apps even remind you when it's time for another glass.
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Set alarms on your phone to remind yourself when it's time to drink: You could set the alarm for every hour, or you could set it for every time you get a notification, or even every time you sit down for a meal.
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Consider using a tech device that tracks hydration levels: If you're having trouble remembering to drink water throughout the day, consider using a tech device that tracks hydration levels and gives you reminders based on them. This will allow you to know exactly how much water is in your body at any given moment—and whether it's enough or not.
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Add sugar free electrolyte powder: Flavored electrolytes can make water more appealing and help you to drink more water. Water is essential, but let's face it, it can be a bit…blah. Flavored water is the most common way people add taste to their water—it's easy and inexpensive. One simple way is by cutting up some fruit slices to add to your glass; another option is adding herbs such as mint or basil. You can also use other tools like infusers or even paper coffee filters if you don't want any solid pieces in your drink.
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Substitute coffee or soda with a tall glass of water:Switching from coffee or soda to water is one of the easiest ways to improve your health. Water helps you feel full faster, so you eat less and potentially lose weight. It also helps with digestion and skin hydration, which means less acne and clearer skin. And it helps keep your mind clear and focused, so you can make better decisions throughout the day.
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Replace sugar-filled, flavored water enhancers: Additionally, replacing sugar-laden drinks with water can help lower cholesterol levels in the body—a key factor in preventing heart disease down the road. So whether you're looking for weight loss or just want to feel more energized during your next long day at work—making this simple switch could be all it takes.
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Increase Electrolytes: As we mentioned, drinking water is important to overall skin hydration, but it's simply not enough when it comes to knowing how to keep your skin hydrated. Electrolytes are essential to overall hydration and by incorporating them into your daily routine, you can ensure that your skin cells will get the hydration they need. Remember, your body's blood vessels supply your skin with electrolytes from the food and drinks you consume, so adding an electrolyte powder mix to your daily routine is a great way to ensure you are being hydrated on a cellular level.
Takeaway
Understanding the importance of hydration for your skin may be the first step to a healthier you with glowing skin. Not to mention, proper hydration can help prevent headaches and fatigue, improve digestion, and even help to improve your mood.