A TOKE OF wellness

No other molecule in the universe has a more significant and irreplaceable impact on our overall existence than water! While we are frequently advised to "drink more water", the importance of water extends far beyond quenching thirst. Let’s talk about how water works in the body, explore how much we should consume on average, consider the possibility of overlooking symptoms of dehydration because we don't feel thirsty, and most importantly, discuss some of the best ways to hydrate!

Water is not just simply this thing we drink sometimes, take showers in, add to recipes, etc. We are made up of more than 70% water, which is found in every cell, tissue, and organ of our bodies. Water acts as a solvent, enabling chemical reactions to occur and facilitating the transportation of nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It also helps regulate body temperature by serving as a coolant when we sweat. Additionally, water lubricates our joints, protects vital organs, and plays a role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.

My mother would always tell me, “By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated”. In my younger years I thought she was being so militant about it, but she was right. Beyond the classic symptoms of thirst and yellow tinted urine, other symptoms of dehydration can include fatigue and weakness, dizziness or feeling lightheaded, headaches, muscle cramps and irritability. We can often write off these symptoms as being hungry (which could also be true), “in a mood”, or needing caffeine. The reality may be as simple as, we just need to properly hydrate! So let’s jump in and keep it simple.

Q

How much water should I drink everyday?

A I greatly trust the advice of Dr. Andrew Huberman (I’ll save you his glowing credentials and just suggest that you look him up). He suggests that we drink 80 oz of water within the first 10 hours that we are awake. The reason for the timeframe is the body's circadian rhythm. The kidneys do the bulk of their work within the first 10 hours we are awake and then output reduces (ideally so that you’re not waking up throughout the night to pee). *Remember, we are all different and therefore 80oz is an average. Listen to your body as you increase your water intake.

Q What kind of water should I drink ?

AWater with a good mineral content. Spring water and volcanic water that are bottled at the source are great options. For example, Ozarka, a very common water brand, is 100% natural spring water. Other examples include, Mountain Valley, Evian, Liquid Death, and San Pellegrino. It’s ideal to stay away from filtered water as it removes contaminants but might also remove essential minerals.

HIGHEST INTENT

QWhat are other effective ways to hydrate?

AWhile drinking quality water should make up the majority of our hydration quota, there are definitely other tasty ways to stay hydrated. Personally, I love coconut water. Coconut water is naturally rich in electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium. Electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining proper fluid balance, supporting nerve function , and facilitating muscle contractions. Also, some fruits and veggies contain water: watermelon, cucumbers, zucchini, oranges, pineapple, strawberries, and a few more! And lastly, if you haven't tried an adrenal cocktail, summer is the perfect time to start and they’re easy to make! Hydration has a huge impact on our adrenal system as it aids in hormone regulation, stress responses, energy production, blood pressure regulation and electrolyte balance. So give yourself a treat and do your body a favor, try this super tasty recipe:

Adrenal cocktail

1/2 cup pineapple juice +

1 cup coconut water +

1 cup water +

A splash of lime juice +

A pinch of sea salt +

Proper hydration is a habit we must develop and maintain every single day! The good news is there are other efficient and tastier ways to achieve that goal than simply, “drink more water”. Prioritizing hydration is a simple key to living a better life physically and mentally each and everyday!

Written By: Anna Wilder

This article is intended for educational purposes only. This information is NOT a substitute for medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider. Consult a doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before consuming any herbs or making changes to your health routine.

Anna is a cannabis, psychedelic and wellness educator. She relentlessly researches, tries, and educates on wellness products and practices. Anna and her husband founded Highest Intent with the goal to help people practively care for themselves through the power of plant medicine

GRATITUDE & CELEBRATION

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