January 2016

It’s important for your body to have plenty of fluids each day. Water helps you digest your food, absorb nutrients and then get rid of the unused waste. With age, some people may lose their sense of thirst. To further complicate matters, some medicines might make it even more important that you have plenty of fluids. Drinking enough fluids every day also is essential if you exercise regularly. (Check with your doctor, however, if you’ve been told to limit how much fluid you drink because you have a particular medical condition.)

Add liquids throughout the day:

• Take sips from a glass of water or milk between bites during meals.
• Have a cup of broth-based, low-fat soup as an afternoon snack.
• Drink a full glass of water if you need to take a pill.
• Have a glass of water before you exercise or go outside to garden or walk, especially on a hot day.
• Remember, water is a good way to add fluids to your daily routine without adding calories.

Trying to lose weight?

• Having a glass of water before meals is a great way to add more fluids while also curbing your appetite a bit.
• Drink fat-free or low-fat milk.

Want to make your water consumption a bit more fun? Add sliced fruit, such as lemons, limes, oranges or strawberries, to a pitcher of water in the morning and store it in the fridge.

Don’t stop drinking liquids if you have a urinary control problem. Talk with your doctor about treatment.

Source: National Institute on Aging; National Institutes of Health