Hydration: why and how should you moisturize every day?

Hydration is essential for our bodies to function properly. Yet many of us don't drink enough water every day. Find out why it's crucial to stay well hydrated, and how to adopt the right reflexes to ensure optimal hydration.

Why is it important to keep well hydrated?

Water accounts for around 60% of an adult's body weight and plays a key role in many vital functions:

1. Keeping the body in good working order

Water is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, blood circulation and the elimination of toxins via the kidneys. A lack of water can slow down these processes and lead to a variety of disorders.

2. Optimize physical and mental performance

Even slight dehydration can affect concentration, memory and alertness. It can also reduce endurance and increase the risk of cramps and muscle fatigue.

3. Regulate body temperature

Water helps the body to evacuate heat through perspiration. Lack of hydration can lead to heat stroke, especially during intense physical activity or hot weather(Santé pratique Paris).

4. Improve skin appearance

Well-moisturized skin is more supple and luminous. Insufficient water intake can lead to a dull complexion, more pronounced fine lines and a feeling of dry skin. Hydration is a bit like anti-aging cream, but natural and much cheaper 😉

How to moisturize every day?

1. Drink enough water

TheEuropean Food Safety Authority (EFSA)recommends a daily water intake of 2 liters for women and 2.5 liters for men. This amount includes water from food.

2. Listen to your thirst and anticipate your needs

It's important to drink regularly, without waiting until you're thirsty, as this sensation already signals the onset of dehydration.

3. Vary your sources of hydration

In addition to water, you can hydrate yourself with :

• Water-rich fruits and vegetables: watermelon, cucumber, tomato, zucchini...
• Herbal teas and infusions: no caffeine or added sugar.
• Soups and broths, especially in winter.

4. Adapt consumption to your lifestyle

• For physical activity: drink before, during and after exercise.
• In hot weather: increase water consumption.
• If you drink a lot of coffee or alcohol: these beverages are diuretic, so you need to compensate with more water.

5. Adopt tips to drink more

• Always have a bottle of water handy, on your desk, in your bag or in the car.
• Use reminder apps or set alarms every 1.5 to 2 hours so you don't forget to drink.
• Add slices of lemon, mint or fruit to vary the flavours.
• Drink a glass of water with each meal and after each trip to the toilet.
• Invest in a graduated water bottle that indicates how much water to drink throughout the day.

Hydration is a pillar of health and well-being. By adopting simple habits, you can easily ensure optimal hydration and improve your energy, concentration and physical appearance. Remember to drink regularly and adapt your water intake to your needs!

By Candice Lhomme