The beet

When it comes to hydration, there are many ways to quench your thirst. Though it seems easy enough to keep up with your water intake, most people are dehydrated and don’t even know it. Here are three easy ways to quench your thirst and give your body the hydration it needs.

• Consume plenty of fluids. This is an obvious one, but surprisingly, most people don’t drink enough. The mechanism for thirst is generally weak in a healthy person and becomes progressively weaker as we age. Most individuals mistake this signal for hunger and eat instead of drink, causing chronic dehydration. Water is the best fluid to keep you hydrated, and you can use your urine color as a general guide to determine whether or not you need to drink more. You are adequately hydrated if your urine is pale yellow and dehydrated if your urine is noticeably yellow or darker. Dark amber is a sign of severe dehydration.
   
• Eat fruits and vegetables. Both fruits and vegetables consist mostly of water and are a great way to hydrate your body. Some of the most hydrating foods include watermelon, lettuce, berries, cucumbers and citrus fruits -so eat up!
   
• Keep it movin’. Staying active increases circulation throughout your body, moving electrolytes into your cells and keeping you hydrated. A major source of confusion for many people is what to drink after being active to replenish the liquids you lost. Just remember, water is always best.