New Year’s resolutions don’t need to be complicated. In fact, shooting for more achievable goals will make you more likely to succeed in your efforts. If you want to prioritize your health and take a significant step towards living longer with your 2023 resolution, then your goal this year should be to drink more water.
The Benefits of Staying Hydrated
A recently published study by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute showed that adults who are better hydrated have a lower risk of chronic health conditions and show fewer markers of biological aging. The reason is due to serum sodium levels in the body, which go up as hydration goes down. Higher serum sodium levels are associated with numerous chronic health conditions, including heart and lung disease.
Proper hydration has other benefits as well, such as improving muscle function, lubricating the joints, and aiding in digestion. Although the NHLBI study did have a relatively small scope with data from just 11,255 adults in the study, there appears to be a positive correlation between drinking water and staying in good health. Plus, drinking more water is a low-risk activity, so you have nothing to lose by aiming to stay better hydrated.
How to Get More Water Throughout the Day
- Carry a water bottle everywhere you go. Invest in a sturdy bottle with a comfortable handle, so you can easily take it anywhere.
- Eat more hydrating foods, including lettuce, watermelon, citrus fruit, and cucumber.
- Drink an extra glass of water before each meal. Not only will you be better hydrated, but you may feel full even faster!
If you are making strides to be healthier in 2023, Walmart Health Virtual Care is here for you. Whether you need a quick doctor’s visit or a therapy session, we can pair you with a provider quickly and affordably through our virtual platform.
