Hydration: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you are playing pickleball in the peak of summer or during the cooler months, it is important to keep your body hydrated and to be knowledgeable about hydration. Focusing on hydration does more than only prevent you from being thirsty. According to Harvard University’s School of Public Health, drinking water is important “to regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and keep organs functioning properly.” The study also suggests that being “well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.” These are all benefits that will improve your hydration, well-being, and your pickleball game.

A general rule of thumb is to drink 64 fluid ounces of water per day, but recent studies by the Mayo Clinic have shown that men need to consume one more liter of water than women. However, how much water you drink truly depends on factors like exercise and the environment. If the weather is hot and humid, the body is more likely to release more fluids and become dehydrated faster, meaning you will need to replenish your body more often. Additionally, when you find yourself on the courts for multiple hours a day, you will want to stay hydrated and replenish your electrolytes. 

With the choices of juice, soda, or other sugary beverages, many people do not reach their recommended water intake per day. Here are a few ways that you can change your water-drinking habits and improve your body's hydration:

• Keep a cold water bottle with you everywhere you go – you are more likely to drink it if you have easy access! 
• If you want to order a sugary drink like soda with a meal, order sparkling water instead. 
• When consuming an alcoholic beverage, have a glass of water between each drink to prevent dehydration. 
• Eat more fruits and vegetables as they are high in water content and important nutrients and vitamins! 
• Use an app to track daily water intake – we are in the digital age after all! This can help your healthy habit become a lifestyle.

Prefer a beverage with taste? We recommend Hydrant to enhance your water. Your regular glass of water transforms into a flavored beverage full of electrolytes, turning your boring water into a fun drink by using one singular pack of their Hydration supplement! Hydration will come easier if you can easily enjoy your beverage. 

With so many ways to increase hydration, try testing them out to see how you can incorporate drinking more water into your daily routine. When you remember to hydrate, you will notice a difference in your body and mind!