Don't like drinking water? See tips for staying hydrated

Drinking water is essential for the body. The advice may seem cliché, but drinking fluids helps your body function better and improve your well-being.

This is because adequate fluid intake protects the heart, regulates blood pressure, improves bowel function, reduces headaches and the risk of kidney stones. In addition to helping maintain skin health.

Despite the importance of this consumption and the countless benefits, it is not difficult to find people who say they don't like drinking water or who forget to do so throughout the day.

“Keeping the body hydrated is important because water regulates several functions in our body. Water regulates body temperature, improves our digestion, and is responsible for transporting nutrients throughout the body. After all, more than 70% of our body is water”, explains Paula Pires, endocrinologist at the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabology Regional São Paulo (SBEM-SP).

The lack of hydration in the body soon gives warning signs. Nutritionist Caroline Medeiros explains that the most common signs are dark-colored urine and headaches or dizziness. In more serious cases, kidney problems may arise.

“You need to drink water regularly, even if you don't feel any obvious signs. As for the body's signs of dehydration, “thirst” is the most common, however, it can be noticed by other signs, such as tiredness, hunger or weight gain, failures in the circulatory system, fluid retention, attention deficit and memory, bad breath and even low athletic performance”, details the professional who is also responsible for nutrition at the UNASP polyclinic.

To avoid these types of problems, the experts consulted by the CNN recommend that, per day, at least 35 ml of water be ingested for each kilo, that is, to know the ideal amount for you, simply multiply your weight by 35. On hotter days, as we have been facing in the country lately, this amount may increase due to increased body sweating.

And for those who have difficulty drinking water or don't like it, the tip is to always have a bottle of liquid nearby, and vary the flavor of the water with fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

“It's very common for there to be people who don't like water and don't feel very thirsty. One suggestion is to try drinking very cold water. Cold water goes down better. Or add fruits to make flavored waters. And opt for foods that are rich in water, such as watermelon, cucumber, zucchini, tomatoes. Because then you already get some of the water from the food itself”, explains Paula.

Juices, soft drinks and ready-made teas can be consumed, but require attention.

“It is best to avoid high-calorie drinks, such as juices, soft drinks and sweet teas. They have a lot of calories, can make you fat and increase blood sugar. They are not good options to quench your thirst”, concludes Paula.

Why is maintaining hydration important for the body?

See below how hydration can help keep your body functioning properly.

• Cells: keeping cells hydrated is essential for the absorption of nutrients and oxygen;
• Digestion: For the intestinal tract to function well, you need to consume fiber and water. Hydration helps in the formation, elimination and prevents drying out of feces. This way, cases of constipation are avoided;
• Kidneys: water helps to expel toxins and waste more easily;
• Circulation: a well-hydrated body has better blood circulation and also helps to keep the heart rate and blood pressure regulated;
• Brain: Neurons are very sensitive to changes and lack of essential nutrients for full functioning. Faced with a lack of water, headaches, lack of attention, mental confusion, among other symptoms may occur;
• Skin: Correct hydration prevents dry skin and mouth.

How to increase fluid consumption?

• Flavor the water with fruits and herbs;
• Drink sparkling water;
• Give preference to cold water;
• Consume foods rich in water (watermelon, melon, orange and pineapple);
• Consume unsweetened teas;
• Drink coconut water;
• Drink natural juices without sugar;
• Use alarm clocks and apps that “remind” you to drink water throughout the day;
• Always have a bottle with you, wherever you go;
• Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water.