Hydration Isn’t Optional—It’s Foundational
Let’s be honest—most of us think we drink enough water… but don’t. If you’ve ever felt extra tired, foggy, bloated, or like your skin’s just not cooperating, dehydration might be playing a bigger role than you realize. Hydration isn’t just about checking off a wellness box—it directly impacts how your body functions, how your brain works, and how you feel throughout the day. And the best part? It’s a simple shift that doesn’t cost much and can make a huge difference. Here’s what I’ve learned about hydration (the real stuff, not just the trendy “drink 3 Stanley cups a day” version), and why I think it’s one of the most underrated daily habits.
How Much Water Do You Actually Need?
Here’s a simple rule of thumb I use: 👉 Take your body weight and divide it in half. That number? That’s roughly how many ounces of water you should aim for each day. So if you weigh 160 lbs, you’d want to drink about 80 oz of water. But here’s the thing—your needs go up if you’re:
Working out
Spending time in the sun
Drinking caffeine or alcohol
Breastfeeding or pregnant
Feeling sick or sweating more than usual
Your body’s water needs shift depending on what’s going on in your life, so it's not one-size-fits-all. It’s about listening to what your body’s asking for—and staying a step ahead of that afternoon crash.
What Kind of Water Is Best?
You don’t need to overcomplicate it, but not all water is equal. I always recommend filtered water if you can get it. It helps remove potential contaminants from tap water without stripping away helpful minerals. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Filtered water – great everyday choice, clean and safe
Distilled water – okay in small amounts, but long-term it lacks minerals your body needs
Alkaline water – trendy, but not necessary for most people. If you like it, go for it, but it’s not magic
Bottom line: your body likes balance. You don’t need to go extreme—just be consistent.
Let’s Talk About Bottles
This might sound small, but what you drink your water out of matters too. I always stay away from single-use plastic bottles (they’re not great for the planet or for you) and anything that might contain BPA. Look for:
Stainless steel
Glass
BPA-free plastic
And please—clean your bottle regularly. I know it’s easy to forget, but even your cute emotional support water bottle needs a good wash. Mold and bacteria love damp, dark places (gross but true).
Why Hydration Matters More Than You Think
This isn’t just about drinking water for the sake of it. Staying hydrated affects so much more than people realize:
Better focus and mental clarity
Improved digestion
More stable energy throughout the day
Fewer headaches and muscle cramps
Healthier, more glowy skin
Supports a healthy metabolism and weight
When you’re hydrated, your body simply functions better. It’s not a quick fix—it’s a daily foundation for feeling like your best self.
Small Habit, Big Impact
Hydration is one of those things that’s easy to brush off because it feels so basic—but it really is one of the best places to start when you’re trying to feel better from the inside out. If it’s something you’ve been overlooking, you’re not alone. But this is your reminder to grab your bottle, refill it, and start paying attention to how much water you're actually getting each day. The difference might surprise you.
-Kiley
