WATER + EXERCISE = HAPPY BODIES

This unseasonably nice weather calls for two things: more water and more exercise. With temperatures still high enough to take a brisk walk, there’s no reason not to throw on a pair of sneakers and continue staying active. And while you’re at it, make sure that you stay hydrated. During the winter months, many people tend to forget that they still need to drink water. Find out why exercise is great for your overall health and how to stay hydrated after the jump.

We all know that exercise is good for us, but do you know just how good it is? Here are a few things exercise can help you do:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Improve heart health by boosting good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering triglycerides (TG).
• Get into a good mood by tickling those brain chemicals, leaving you feeling happier and relaxed.
• Boost energy and endurance.
• Get more out of your food. Exercise increases circulating oxygen so that nutrients can be delivered more efficiently throughout the body.
• Fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest (just don’t work out too close to bed time or the “boosting energy” part may outweigh the “better rest” effects).

Now that you know how your exercise is benefiting you, here is how you should stay hydrated:

• Choose good ol’ H2O as your hydrating beverage of choice. While sports drinks and smoothies are tempting, water will do the trick for shorter workouts (under an hour).
• If you’re doing more intense workouts but aren’t a fan of sports drinks, try subbing with coconut water or electrolyte tablets.
• Fruit is a good source of both electrolytes and water. A banana paired with water is just what your body needs after a long run.

For food tips on how to fuel your fitness, click here!