Stress – Hydration Equation
by Lisa Bruskin, Director of Fitness
During this great pandemic of our lives right now; it’s important to try and manage our stress levels on any level we can while social distancing. I wanted to discuss the importance of staying well hydrated to manage our cortisol levels.
Cortisol receptors are found on most of our cells and affect many of our body functions. (Cortisol helps control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, help reduce inflammation, and assist with memory formulation).
When stress is high and one is dehydrated it can weaken your adrenal glands and dehydrate your body. (Adrenal glands produce hormones that regulate metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and respond to stress).
70% of our body is water…water aids in digestion, absorption, circulation, transports nutrients, maintains body temperature & creates saliva (breaks down food for digestion)
Let’s sip away stress!
Some common signs of dehydration:
- Frequent bathroom runs
- Feeling anxious/nervous
- Higher perspiration rates
- Trouble breathing
- Feeling exhausted (unusually fatigued)
- Feeling thirsty
- Craving salty or sugary foods/drinks
- Having trouble falling asleep and staying asleep
Hydrate your body & nourish your adrenal glands!
Some tips:
- Drink 8 glasses or 2 liters of water a day
- Sip slowly throughout the day; so your body can absorb and utilize efficiently
- Drink before you are thirsty
- If you exercise replace fluids lost (including electrolytes)
- Avoid caffeinated beverages
What I do:
- Add lemons – limes – grapefruit to add additional flavor
- Drink warm water and honey in the AM
- Have a glass of water 15 minutes before sleep
- Try to get 6-8 hours of sleep
- Turn off all electronic devices and the NEWS one hour before sleep!
Stay hydrated all!
