Think Hydration is Just for Summer? Here’s Why Winter Says Otherwise

5 mins

From chapped lips to fatigue and low energy, your body sends plenty of warning signs when it’s craving hydration – especially during winter. CANCRO founder Arsh Mehta shares expert tips to stay hydrated all year round.

As the temperature drops and winter sets in, our focus naturally shifts to staying warm and cosy to beat off the colder climate. Yet, one crucial aspect of health often gets overlooked during this season: hydration.

Arsh Mehta, Founder of CANCRO – a deuterium-depleted water that some studies suggest may improve cellular processes – says hydration is just as vital in the winter as it is in the scorching summer months – if not more so.

‘People don’t associate colder weather with dehydration,’ says Arsh. ‘Unlike summer, when we feel thirsty due to heat and sweating, winter masks these physical triggers. The cooler air suppresses the sensation of thirst, making it easier to forget to drink water regularly.’

In fact, in cold weather, the body’s thirst response decreases by up to 40 per cent. You may not feel thirsty, but your body still needs the same amount of hydration as it does in warmer seasons.

woman drinking warm tea for hydration during winter on sheepskin rug wearing a sweater
While comforting, some hot drinks often have diuretic effects that can dehydrate rather than hydrate

Adding to the problem, many people gravitate toward hot beverages like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate to stay warm. While comforting, these drinks often have diuretic effects that can dehydrate rather than hydrate.

Indoor heating systems exacerbate the issue, drying out the air and our skin, increasing the need for hydration even when the body doesn’t send obvious thirst signals.

Even mild dehydration in winter can cause fatigue, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. This is often mistaken for ‘winter blues’ or seasonal lethargy.

‘Winter layers and heavier clothing also play a psychological role,’ Mehta explains. ‘They make people feel insulated from environmental factors, further contributing to the oversight.’

Dehydration during winter is worse because its symptoms are often attributed to the cold weather. Even mild dehydration in winter can cause fatigue, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. This is often mistaken for ‘winter blues’ or seasonal lethargy.

According to Mehta, these are some subtle signs to watch for.

Signs you’re dehydrated

Dry Skin and Chapped Lips: The combination of cold air and indoor heating strips moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and cracking.

Fatigue and Low Energy: Dehydration reduces blood flow and oxygen to the brain and muscles, causing sluggishness and reduced alertness.

woman using chapstick for dehydrated lips in winter

Headaches: ‘Dehydration can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to tension headaches that are often mistaken for other issues,’ says Mehta.

Frequent Illness: A lack of adequate hydration weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to colds and flu.

Digestive Issues: Insufficient hydration can disrupt digestion, leading to bloating, constipation, or discomfort, especially after consuming heavier, richer winter meals.

Understanding these signs and their connection to dehydration can help individuals address the root cause rather than misattributing symptoms to winter ailments.

Deuterium-Depleted Water

When it comes to hydration, not all water is created equal. Mehta highlights the benefits of deuterium-depleted water (DDW), a specialised type of water with reduced levels of deuterium, a naturally occurring isotope of hydrogen.

‘High deuterium levels can slow down cellular energy production because the body uses energy to process it,’ explains Mehta. By lowering deuterium intake, DDW supports more efficient cellular functions, promoting improved energy production and metabolism. This can be especially valuable in winter when the body often feels fatigued and sluggish due to shorter days and colder weather.

Additionally, DDW has been linked to reduced oxidative stress, a factor associated with inflammation and aging. ‘By supporting the body’s natural balance and reducing metabolic stress, deuterium-depleted water enhances hydration and overall wellness, making it a thoughtful choice during the colder months,’ Mehta says.

Practical Tips to Stay Hydrated in Winter

Hydrating in winter doesn’t have to feel like a chore. These practical and enjoyable ways can ensure adequate water intake during the colder months:

Flavour Your Water Naturally: ‘Add slices of lemon, orange, or grapefruit for a citrusy boost,’ suggests Mehta. ‘You can also try cucumber, berries, or herbs like mint and rosemary to make plain water more enticing.’

Warm It Up: Drinking warm water infused with ginger, honey, or chamomile provides a soothing, hydrating option that also combats the winter chill.

Incorporate Water-Rich Foods: Foods like soups, stews, and broths are not only comforting but also hydrating. Fruits and vegetables like oranges, cucumbers, and celery can further contribute to daily water intake.

Use a Hydration Tracker: Apps or simple reminders can help you stay consistent with your water intake throughout the day.

Opt for High-Quality Water: ‘High-quality options, such as deuterium-depleted water, offer enhanced hydration benefits, making every sip more impactful,’ says Mehta.

Staying hydrated in winter is more than just drinking a set amount of water each day—it’s about understanding your body’s unique needs and adopting strategies to meet them. From recognising subtle signs of dehydration to exploring the benefits of innovative solutions like deuterium-depleted water, there are many ways to prioritise hydration and wellness during the colder months.

‘Hydration is a year-round commitment,’ says Mehta. ‘By paying attention to your water intake, even in winter, you can ensure better energy levels, stronger immunity, and overall well-being.’

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