We all know the importance of staying hydrated in summer, but most people don’t think about it during the workday. When we’re in an air-conditioned office, focusing on a million different tasks, staying hydrated often gets put on the back burner yet it’s one of the most important things we can do for our health.

 

Proper hydration helps boost metabolism and reduce daytime fatigue. Dehydration can lead to headaches, decreased memory and can even reduce job productivity. By the time we feel thirsty, it’s already too late.

 

A good rule of thumb is drinking half your body weight in ounces of water every day. For example, a 150-pound person should drink 75 ounces (about 9 cups) of liquid each day. Registered dietician Kim Larson, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, says “It’s just as important for someone who is working at a computer all day [to drink water], as it is for somebody who is running a marathon.” To that effect, it’s important to keep sipping consistently throughout the day while you’re at work so you’re sufficiently hydrated for work responsibilities and tasks.

 

If a busy workday is keeping you and your employees from drinking more water, don’t worry. Staying hydrated at work is easy with these tips:

 

Keep water at your desk

A bottle of water is a visual reminder to hydrate. For employees with desk jobs, this is the best way to stay hydrated at work. Staying hydrated can also reduce headaches that may be worsened by eye strain.

 

Take regular hydration breaks

We get so caught up in busy days that we sometimes forget self-care. A water break is a quick opportunity to sip, savor and relax the mind for just a moment. When break time is over, your body and mind will be ready to take on whatever work challenge comes your way.

 

Choose hydrating healthy snacks

Many people notice a decreased appetite during summer. Eating smaller meals of hydrating fruits and vegetables can help you stay hydrated and energized. In fact, 20 percent of daily water intake comes from the foods we eat. High-water foods such as watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, berries and leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses with a hydrating impact.

Pro tip: Healthy snacks like nuts can boost sodium and potassium loss that can be a side effect of dehydration.

 

Encourage employees to drink water

At meetings and throughout the workday, providing easy access to water and other healthier drinks can motivate employees to drink up and stay hydrated.

 

Simply put, a busy work schedule shouldn’t keep you from staying hydrated. Prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. A healthy vending machine at work can provide easy access to healthier, hydrating beverages. Be the healthy hero and get one now.