Water

There are four Macro Nutrients; Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats, and Water.

Often the most overlooked macronutrient. Our bodies are a large majority water and it isn’t something we should deprive ourselves of.

Myth: If you are thirsty you are already dehydrated

Facts: There are numerous reasons we feel thirst: Hunger, side effects of numerous medications, being in a hot or humid climate, exercise, and dehydration.

It is suggested that we drink roughly half our body weight (pounds) in ounces. So, if I weighed 180lbs I should drink about 90 oz of water a day.

Some modifications to this can be made depending on your exercise level/intensity, and the climate you are in. Generally, if you are working out at a high intensity, or sweating a lot you will be losing water, therefor you should be drinking more than that starting 90 oz. If you live in a very hot climate, or a humid one, you will also want to increase your water intake to account for it.

Everyone's body reacts differently on how we divide our intake between the macronutrients. For some eating more carbs than fat and protein may cause them to lose weight, where that could cause another person to gain weight. Finding the right balance for your own body is about knowing what you are putting into it and adjusting the balance between your macros. It may take some trial and error but a healthy body is a happy one!

Tips & Tricks:

• Try and drink 1/2 of your body weight (pounds) in ounces per day
• Bring a water bottle with you to work and the gym to have on hand
• Get an app for your phone to remind you to drink water throughout the day
• Switch out a sweetened beverage for a glass of water instead
• Try and drink a glass of water when you first get up in the morning to kick start your day!

ICYMI

Carbohydrates

Proteins

Fats

Blog post by Erin Womboldt.