Water: Essential For Your Body In All Seasons

For me, it is easier to remember to drink more water in the summer. But, what about in the winter? Past studies have shown that colder weather increases the risk of dehydration. When you don't feel thirsty, you don't drink enough water. We lose a great deal of water from our bodies in the winter due to respiratory fluid loss through breathing. Our bodies also are working harder under the weight of extra clothing, and sweat evaporates quickly in cold, dry air.

Water is an essential component for all processes the body completes each day. The body needs water to function. Dehydration can cause physical symptoms such as tiredness, lethargy, aches and pains, and an inability to function properly. It is important to balance the amount of water going in to the body with the amount of water being lost by the body. How much water should you drink? Aim to drink half of your body weight in ounces each day as part of a healthy diet.

Just as you would service your car and get it ready to face winter driving conditions, so too should you take care of your body during winter. Overall, it boils down to this...drink plenty of water daily (in every season), especially when exercising or working outdoors.