5 Brilliant Ways to STAY HYDRATED

According to the CDC via the Huff Post, in 2013 they found that 43 percent of Americans drink less than 4 cups of water per day! Lack of water leads to dehydration, which can in result lead to dry skin and sometimes even acne or wrinkles. It is important to keep in mind that there are more things that can lead to dehydration other than just not drinking enough water, such as vomiting, excessive sweating, or drinking too much alcohol. The main point our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks want you to know is that it is vital you try to drink 8 glasses of water a day that are 8 ounces each. Dehydration can lead to health problems you don't want. If you find yourself in need of a doctor at the Lake of the Ozarks, whether you live here or are on vacation here for the season, consider Central Ozarks Medical Center. Keep reading for 5 brilliant ways to stay hydrated.

1. Set your timer for every hour you plan to drink water.
On particularly busy days, the hours may seem to pass without you even realizing it. Before you know it, the day may be half over - and you'll have barely drunk anything! Setting an hourly timer on your watch or phone and drinking a glass of water every time it goes off can be a helpful way to help you remember to drink throughout the day.

2. Drink at least 1 glass of water before you eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Many people don't realize this, but thirst can frequently be mistaken for hunger. Drinking a glass of water before meals can help fill your stomach, making you less likely to overeat. Drinking a glass of water before reaching for a snack (especially a dehydrating one!) can be beneficial as well.

3. Drink an 8-ounce glass of water every morning.
Since we typically don't drink very much (if anything) during the night, most of us are dehydrated by the time we get up in the morning. Counteract this by drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning - even before breakfast.

4. Drink water CONSISTENTLY throughout the day.
Thirst is your body's natural indicator of dehydration - by the time you feel thirsty, you're already at least a little dehydrated. Try to remember to drink consistently throughout the day, even when you don't consciously feel thirsty.

5. You can EAT your water too.
The foods you eat can impact your overall hydration level. Eating wet, moist foods (such as fruits and soups) can help you stay hydrated, whereas dry foods (such as nuts and chips) can actually contribute to overall dehydration.

Stay Hydrated With Central Ozarks Medical Center

Again, if you find yourself needing a physician at the Lake of the Ozarks, whether you are a full-time resident of the area or you are here on vacation, you should consider Central Ozarks Medical Center. Our Family Practice Providers see patients of all ages for a variety of illnesses, injuries, and ailments. Call today for your appointment our locations and phone numbers are listed below.


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573.765.5141 -- Richland
573.302.7490 -- Osage Beach
573.346.4446 -- Camdenton
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Serving Camdenton, Laclede, Pulaski, and Miller Counties