Be Happy, Healthy and Hydrated!

No matter what you’re out there doing, staying hydrated is critical for your general health and well-being and essential in optimizing performance in sporting and exercise activities.

There are many benefits of proper hydration during exercise: lower heart rate, higher skin blood flow, lower core body temperature, lower perceived exertion and improved skills, concentration and coordination

Proper hydration also reduces the incidence of gastrointestinal issues and improves digestion, increases cardiac output (amount of blood pumped by the heart each minute), stroke volume (volume of blood pumped from left ventricle in one contraction) and muscle and joint functioning.

Your specific fluid needs vary based on type of physical activity, environment-temperature and altitude, age, gender, body size and composition.

Common early signs of dehydration include darker concentrated urine, dry skin and decreased skin elasticity. bad breath, chills, dizziness or light-headedness, nausea, loss of focus and motivation, headache, sunken dark and hollow eyes, excessive fatigue, loss of muscle strength,  weakness, confusion and irritability.

The best hydration options for your body include purified waters, spring water, alkaline water, carbonated water, tea, coffee, milks, juices free of added sugars or preservatives and Sports Drinks.

It is important to note that there’s a world of difference between a sports drink and an energy drink. Sports drinks are scientifically designed to deliver the correct formulation of ingredients to replenish electrolytes, fluids, and carbohydrate. Energy drinks on the other hand are filled with sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants, high in calories and can become addictive with side effects such as dehydration, excessive urination, insomnia, headaches, jitters, restlessness, irritability and an increased heart rate.

Whatever you’re out there doing, be happy, healthy and hydrated!