8 Mistakes to Avoid When Drinking Water

Water aids digestion, and transport nutrients to your vital organs and the rest of the body. Water is the most important substance your body needs, it helps prevent dehydration and some other issues that can cause illnesses or death. Unfortunately for many, thinking that drinking water should be a simple thing is the reason why they are not getting the most from this naturally-occurring substance. You need to learn to avoid certain mistakes that can limit your water intake. The following are the common mistakes we make when consuming water;

1. Drinking Water During and Immediately After Meals

This is the number one mistake we all make when it comes to drinking water. The problem with this mistake is that it will dilute stomach acid and your digestive enzymes thus impairing digestion. You should aim at drinking water in moderation during and after meals to avoid the disruption of your body’s digestive process. Take a few minutes break after eating to consume even more water.

2. Drinking Only Water with Meals

Relying solely on water while you eat is another common error you should watch out for. The reason is that this habit will not necessarily create a balance between nutrient uptake and hydration. You should aim to include a variety of fluids and balanced nutrients in your diet to support digestion and optimal health. Adding 100% natural fruit juice or probiotic drink for instance can help boost your digestion and nutrient uptake after eating.

3. Drinking Water Too Quickly

Drinking water quickly during and after meals can lead to discomfort. Oftentimes, you will feel bloating sensations and some disturbances in your electrolyte buildup. It makes more sense to sip water slowly and help your body absorb it more efficiently. Drinking water too quickly can also create some other issues. Overweight people who drink water quickly for instance may start coughing and even suffer from acid reflux. To avoid issues like this, it pays to sip water slowly especially when your stomach is full.

4. You Drink Water Only When Thirsty

When you rely solely on thirst, it means your body is dehydrated. Remember, thirst is not the most effective indicator of dehydration, you need regular and consistent water intake to maintain optimal hydration of your body.

5. You Drink Ice Cold Water After Meals

Drinking extremely cold water after meals can trigger stomach cramps and may also slow down digestion. Cold water can solidify fats and slow down digestive enzymes. You should aim at consuming water at room temperature or lukewarm water to support digestion and nutrient uptake after meals.

6. You Overhydrate in a Short Period

Many people don’t believe water intoxication exists but this happens when you drink too much water quickly. Drinking water quickly can lead to an electrolyte imbalance that can cause headaches, nausea, or confusion.

7. You Drink Water from Plastic Bottles Repeatedly

Re-using plastic water bottles repeatedly can cause exposure to harmful chemicals like BPA. You should switch to glasses or any BPA-free bottles to store water to lower or prevent the risks of chemical contamination. If you must store water , you should check the BPA-free plastics to store water safely.

8. You Drink Large Amounts of Water before Bed

Consuming a large amount of water a few minutes before bedtime can lead to frequent awakening for toilet visits. Frequent toilet visits will disrupt quality sleep which might lead to other health problems like migraines, high blood pressure, and weaknesses. Moderate your water intake before bedtime, to avoid sleep disruption.