I’m on the wagon…again. The mocha wagon. My bladder and hips have put their foot down; I need fewer caffeinated, sugary, chocolaty drinks and more H20. In a quest to increase my water intake and bored with bog-standard herbal teas, I asked my Instagram friends for hydration inspiration. You can read their fantastic recommendations here.
My favourites so far are:
A delicious, creamy tea which is perfect with a dash of oat milk. It satiates my sugar craving. Reasonably priced at £2.20 for 20 bags.
A light, sharp and refreshing tea. £6.50 for a 100g loose leaf pouch.
The importance of staying hydrated during the menopause
Staying hydrated regulates the body’s temperature, lubricates joints, transports nutrients, and removes waste products. It also improves physical and cognitive performance.
As we age our body’s ability to regulate fluid balance can decrease. Staying hydrated can help to prevent age-related health issues such as constipation and kidney stones. It can also help to improve skin health, which can become more delicate. During menopause hot flashes and night sweats can cause dehydration. Staying hydrated can also help to prevent painful UTI’s, which are more common at this time.
How much water should you drink each day?
Each individual’s needs are unique to them and depend on their health, age, size and weight as well as activity levels, the type of job they do and the climate they live in. Drinking little and often is the best way to stay hydrated.
In March 2010, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a report suggesting an adequate total daily intake of 2 litres of fluids for women and 2.5 litres for men. This quantity includes drinking water, drinks of all kinds and the moisture available from the food we eat. On average our food is thought to contribute about 20% of our fluid intake which, therefore, suggests a woman should aim to drink about 1.6 litres and a man should aim for 2 litres.
However, there is controversy surrounding our hydration needs. Some argue that there’s a lack of scientific evidence to support the perceived health benefits of drinking the often-touted 2 litres a day, especially when it comes to those of us who live in temperate climates and who lead a largely sedentary lifestyle. However, the NHS still recommends that we consume around 6-8 glasses, with more required in hot weather or if exercising.
BBC Food
What are the symptoms of dehydration?
Thirst and passing dark-coloured urine are signs of dehydration, as well as feeling lethargic, dizzy or having a dry mouth and lips. If you notice any of these symptoms hit the H20!
Do you manage to drink six to eight glasses of water today? I know I don’t. What do you drink to stay refreshed and hydrated? Please share your hydration inspiration!
Thank you for stopping by.
I hope you’re keeping well.
Take care,
Charlotte x
Click here to balance your blood sugar during the perimenopause.
