Water is life. Up to 60% of our bodies are made up of water, so it’s safe to say that drinking water is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. It helps keep us hydrated, improves our skin health, aids digestion, and flushes out toxins. However, drinking water to stay hydrated is not as simple as it sounds. Are you making any of these six common mistakes? 

Mistake #1: Drinking too much water

We hear time and time again that drinking plenty of water is crucial for our health, so the more the better, right? Well, not quite. It depends on a lot of factors. There is no set amount that is right for everyone, and how much you need depends on your weight, how much you sweat, how hot the weather is, and other external factors. While the guideline is generally 2L per day for women and 3L per day for men, it’s best to adapt to your body and its unique needs. 

When you drink too much water, you can dilute electrolytes in your body, specifically salt, which can result in low sodium in your blood. Ironically, this condition is a form of dehydration. So while enough drinking water is important, don’t overdo it as you may cause more harm than good. 

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Mistake #2: Drinking at the wrong time 

Drinking too much water during mealtimes can dilute digestive enzymes and cause uncomfortable conditions like acid reflux. Aim to drink water at least 30 minutes before or after meals to aid digestion. It’s also a good idea to drink water first thing in the morning to hydrate your body after a long night’s sleep.

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Mistake #3: Drinking tap water

Not all water is created equal. Tap water, in particular, may contain harmful contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and nanoparticles of plastic as well as chemicals that may affect fertility, hormones and your brain. Bottled water isn’t really a better option either since it’s a huge factor that contributes toward global warming (and costs you a pretty penny, too). The best option is to use a water filter to ensure you’re drinking clean, purified water. 

A water filtration system like KURO-Bō is unlike any other modern filter available today in terms of additional health benefits. Essentially mother nature’s own toxin magnet, KURO-Bō filters are made of pure activated binchotan charcoal that is scientifically proven to purify by removing heavy metals and chemicals; mineralise by adding Magnesium and Calcium; remove odours and bacteria; improve the taste of water, and balance an acidic pH. 

Not only does KURO-Bō binchotan offer amazing benefits for your health, but it’s also 100% natural, sustainable, reusable and zero waste. It’s also extremely convenient to make your own mineral water at home or on-the-go, whenever, wherever. You can use it in almost anything – simply add the charcoal filters to your water bottle, school bottles, jugs, fridge water dispensers, and anything else you can think of. After 3–6 months, KURO-Bō Charcoal is recyclable in many earth-kind, life-enhancing and creative ways. 

Mistake #4: Drinking water too fast

Drinking water too quickly can make you feel uncomfortable and sick, and it can also affect your body’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. This is because the sodium in your body doesn’t have a chance to help balance the fluid inside and outside the cell. 

Instead, take small sips of water throughout the day to avoid downing large amounts in one go. 

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Mistake #5: Drinking water only when thirsty

Waiting until you’re thirsty to drink water is not the best strategy. Thirst is a sign that your body is already dehydrated, and you may need to drink more water than you think. Make drinking water a habit by setting a schedule or using a water-tracking app. This will help you stay hydrated throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty.

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Mistake #6: Drinking the wrong fluids 

Drinks like tea, coffee and sodas are made up of mostly water, so thinking that it counts toward your daily water intake is an easy mistake to make. These drinks typically have a mild diuretic effect, which pushes fluid out of your body and not necessarily hydrating you. 

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Drink up

Small changes go a long way to make a big difference, so start today. Here’s to drinking the right water in the right way to stay healthy, happy, and hydrated. Your body will thank you for it!