As the heat of spring and summer begins to arrive, the need to stay hydrated becomes even more of a necessity.

While it may be a well-known fact that more than half of the human body is composed of water, there is still a great number of people who do not have a large enough water intake. Staying hydrated is important for a person’s organs and improves mood, skin and overall health. The average person should drink about 80 ounces of water each day; however, this may vary on the height and weight of a person and how active he or she is.

Wake up and start the day with a glass of water. Whether taking medications or heading to the gym or class, starting the morning with a glass of water is always a great way to welcome the day.

Water is important because it helps with critical functions such as maintaining body temperature, protecting vital organs and aiding in digestion. The body loses water through sweating on a warm day. Make sure your body is ready to take on the heat of the day by drinking extra water. Not staying hydrated can interfere with the body’s necessary functions, cause dehydration and if untreated, can lead to heatstroke or heat exhaustion.

Drinking plenty of water can also help a person lose weight. A lot of people struggle with thinking they are hungry when they are actually just dehydrated. Before reaching for a snack, drink a glass of water, wait 15 minutes and then decide if you are still hungry. 

Stop blaming your headaches, irritability and fatigue on lack of sleep. Lack of water often causes dizziness, which leads to headaches. Increasing water intake will not only help prevent headaches but will also improve the overall mood of people.

Drinking water is not the only way to stay hydrated. Eating foods such as cucumbers, bell peppers and celery are all great water-filled foods. Other drinks such as fruit and vegetable juices, milk and herbal teas are all great ways to contribute to your daily water intake.

Staying hydrated is always important no matter the time of year, but increasing temperatures result in increasing ways for the body to lose its needed water. Make sure to always stay hydrated and keep your body happy by drinking plenty of water.