As the temperature drops and the days get colder, it’s easy to forget about one of the most important things for our well-being: staying hydrated. While we might not feel thirsty like we do in the summer, drinking enough fluids is just as vital for keeping our systems running during winter, Apurva U. Surve, Sports Nutritionist at Fast&Up said.
Here are seven ways to ensure you boost your water intake:
- Savor Flavored Water: Plain water can be a tough sell in the winter, but how about incorporating some delicious, infused water? Try adding ginger slices, cinnamon sticks, or fruit slices. Not only do these flavors make your water more enjoyable, but they also offer health benefits like improved digestion, improved insulin sensitivity and stronger immunity.
- Warm Up with Soups and Broths: Soups and broths are cosy and comforting winter staples that also help keep you hydrated. Traditional Indian soups like rasam or spiced broths like shorba are not only packed with flavour but also help in relieving cold and cough.
- Sip on Herbal Teas: Herbal teas are the perfect beverage to curl up with on a chilly day! Opt for classics like chamomile or peppermint or indulge in some Indian favourites like kahwa (a spiced Kashmiri tea) or ginger-cardamom tea.
- Incorporate Electrolytes in your routine: In winter, it’s common to feel less thirsty, which can lead to lower water consumption. Adding electrolytes to your hydration routine helps the body maintain its fluid balance and ensures essential minerals are replenished. Effervescent electrolyte tablets offer a practical option, as they dissolve quickly in water, making it easier to stay hydrated during the colder months.
- Enjoy Probiotic Drinks for Gut Health: Probiotic drinks are a great way to hydrate and support your digestion at the same time. In winter, you might like to try chaas (spiced buttermilk) or kanji (a fermented black carrot drink).
- Explore Warm Milk Alternatives: Warm milk alternatives like haldi doodh (turmeric milk) or badam milk (almond milk with saffron) are perfect if you prefer milk beverages! Don’t forget to add a pinch of black pepper to your haldi doodh to help your body absorb that bioactive curcumin found in turmeric that supports your immune health.
“You know what they say: “Out of sight, out of mind!” Ensure you always have an insulated water bottle handy that can help keep your water at just the right temperature. Staying hydrated is important all year round, and with these fun ideas, you can make sure you’re getting enough fluids even in the coldest months. Cheers to a warm and hydrated winter,” Surve said.
