30+ Years Experience in the Field of Nutrition

Get the NaK and Hydrate

May 26, 2023

May 23, 2023

We all need to concentrate on staying well hydrated to maintain nutritional fitness. The human body is more than half water(60%), so it is super important to keep supplying fluids throughout the day to keep your body functioning well (how about that dewy skin?!?) and to stay sharp mentally. The term electrolytes is big news. Sodium and potassium are electrolytes responsible for fluid balance in the body. If you think back to your early high school chemistry days, in the periodic table of elements the symbol for sodium is Na and potassium is K, resulting in the conflated term NaK.

Fluid replacement is not restricted to just water, although that is an excellent source. Solid foods also contain water so it’s important to make sure that you continue consuming a well-balanced diet.

Is it possible to consume too much fluid? The answer is yes. I certainly don’t want you sloshing around feeling uncomfortable. Water intoxication or hyper-hydration are very real, but rare, occurrences.

Many who are on weight loss restrictions may consume excessive amounts of water to decrease hunger. Although fluids are necessary to keep our bodies functioning well, don’t forget to fuel up with those mandatory nutrients only available through actual food. By filling up with water you are potentially cutting down too much on caloric intake which may result in an inadequate consumption of required nutrients. Over time, this practice may prove to be more harmful than beneficial, resulting in malnutrition.

You do not need to choose between reaching your goal weight, staying hydrated and staying well nourished. You can absolutely have it all.

Keep sipping fluids throughout the day. As the weather is getting warmer we may need to boost the hydrating regimen (an occasional ice pop is a yummy treat in the heat and counts as fluid. Alcohol, however, may further dehydrate you. I’m just sayin’). But please don’t neglect your overall objective of becoming nutritionally fit. Your journey continues and hydration is a huge part. Keep journaling and reflecting back for ways to improve your relationship with food. Keep working out your nutritional routine by looking for patterns and habits that can be tweaked or even eliminated. Now I am adding fluids to monitor. Are you drinking throughout the day? Thirst is not a good indicator of hydration status.

If you feel thirsty, chances are you are already dehydrated. Headaches and cramping are also signs you may be dehydrated. If you think you are drinking a lot, but not urinating a lot, you may need to take in more fluids. You should urinate throughout the day. In most cases, it’s a good sign if your urine is clear and colorless. It may indicate adequate fluid intake. Watch those caffeinated beverages. I usually restrict my clients to one cup per day (8oz), (but that depends on individual assessment). It’s all about balancing food, hydration, medication (if applicable) and activity. Keep setting realistic and accessible goals. Watch your health improve while you lift your spirits at the same time. Good health is magical and attainable!

Peace, B




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