7 Myths About Staying Hydrated that Will Surprise You

Many of us know a lot about water and hydration. We know that staying hydrated aids weight loss. We know that proper hydration is essential for optimal health. And we know that being properly hydrated improves workout performance.

MYTHS ABOUT STAYING HYDRATED

However, some of the “facts” about water are actually myths that have been around for years. Let’s dispel the most common myths about staying hydrated.

1. Drinking water always eases constipation.

Chances are you’ve used this remedy in the past. And maybe it helped ease your constipation, but that doesn’t mean it’ll work in the future.

You see, increasing water intake only helps ease constipation if you’re dehydrated. If you’re properly hydrated, drinking water may not help.  

2. It’s very easy to overhydrate.

Every time I read the comment section on articles about water, I see at least one comment from someone who’s worried about overhydration. 

The truth is, it’s not easy to overhydrate. You would have to drink a lot of water in a very short period. You can easily avoid overhydrating by spreading your water intake throughout the day.

3. We all need eight glass of water a day.

Eight glasses of water a day is ideal for some people but not for all. How much water you really need varies depending on your level of activity, body size, gender, age and the humidity in the air.

Highly active people or those with bigger bodies may need more than eight glasses a day, for example.

4. Yellow urine is always a sign you’re dehydrated.

Yellow urine could mean that you’re dehydrated, but realize that your diet also affects your urine color. For instance, taking supplements that contain B-vitamins can give your urine a yellowish color.

If you notice your urine has turned yellow, evaluate any recent dietary changes you may have made before increasing your water intake.

5. You need bottled water that has electrolytes.

There’s a misconception that you need an electrolyte-enhanced drink after every workout. But you don’t need it. The fortified minerals and vitamins don’t add to hydration.

You can replenish the lost nutrients by eating bananas, watermelon, and other hydrating foods instead.

6. Coffee won’t keep you hydrated.

Common knowledge says that the diuretic effects of caffeine cancel out all the hydration effects of coffee. However, there’s no evidence to back this claim. In fact, this study found that drinking four cups of coffee a day is just as hydrating as drinking water.

7. You’re properly hydrated, if you’re not thirsty.

It’s possible to be dehydrated without feeling thirsty, especially if you’re older. Older people lack strong thirst signals. Therefore, they should focus on drinking enough water even when they’re not thirsty.