It’s important to drink water. I don’t think I’m surprising anyone by saying that. (But just in case I am-, it’s important to have food and shelter too! Please take care of yourself!) 

Still, many people aren’t drinking enough water on a daily basis.

Let’s break down how hydration affects your body, what happens when you don’t get enough, and how to hydrate smarter, with or without electrolytes.

Why is hydrating important?

Water is a basic necessity of life. We as humans cannot live without it (though some of us really try…). It is essential to our survival and plays a key role in many bodily processes, including transporting nutrients to cells, eliminating waste, protecting joints and organs, and regulating body temperature.

Throughout the day, we naturally lose water through sweating, breathing, and urination. To keep your body functioning properly, you need to replenish that supply by drinking enough fluids.

What can happen if you don’t drink enough water?

Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, which can cause headaches, muscle cramps, fatigue, and dizziness – and if left untreated, can even lead to organ failure or death. So, yeah… It’s a pretty big deal.

Does drinking more water help your skin?

Water helps your organs function correctly, and your skin is the largest organ on your body. So, by drinking water and staying hydrated, you’re giving life to your skin and helping it work the way it’s supposed to.

But the idea that drinking more water than necessary will make your skin glow or look younger? I’m afraid to say it's not exactly true.

If you're already hydrated, extra water won't boost your skin's appearance. But if you're dehydrated, drinking water will help restore your skin’s natural function and appearance.

Does drinking water help with weight loss?

Yes! Because water has zero calories, it is a great substitute for sugary drinks that can contribute to weight gain. Plus, water can help you feel full, reducing the urge to eat more during the day.

How much water are you supposed to drink per day?

To stay properly hydrated, it is recommended that women drink 10 cups (or 80 ounces) of water per day, and men drink 13 cups (or 104 ounces) per day on average. Get to drinking!

How much water should you drink by weight?

A simple rule: Drink half your body weight in ounces.

So if you weigh 200 pounds, aim for 100 ounces of water per day. Divide that by 8 to get your number in cups—about 12.5 cups in this example.

What are electrolytes, and why do they matter?

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge and support critical body functions, such as muscle contraction, nerve signals, hydration, balance, and pH regulation.

Common electrolytes include:

• Sodium
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Chloride
  

When you sweat, exercise, or get sick, you lose these minerals, so it’s important to replenish them, especially if you're active or feeling under the weather.

What are the best electrolyte drinks and hydration mixes?

Liquid I.V.

‍

🥤 Liquid I.V.

‍A go-to for convenient hydration, Liquid I.V. offers an effective electrolyte blend with sodium, potassium, chloride, and B vitamins. It’s easy to use, comes in great flavors, and works well for everyday hydration.

LIDO

💧 LIDO

If you’re avoiding sugar, LIDO is a standout. It’s sugar-free, packed with high-quality ingredients, and still comes in a variety of great flavors. It includes sodium, potassium, and magnesium, without the added calories.

DripDrop

🔥 DripDrop

Great for more intense dehydration—whether from illness, heat, or hard workouts. DripDrop contains 3x the electrolytes of a typical sports drink, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Bonus: it tends to taste less salty than other brands.

Zyn + Turmeric

🌿 Zyn + Turmeric

‍Zyn includes sodium and potassium for hydration, and also adds turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory that may aid in muscle recovery and support immune health. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking to elevate their wellness routine.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're chasing a new fitness goal, recovering from a summer sweat session, or just trying to feel more energized throughout the day, hydration is your foundation. Start with water. Add electrolytes when needed. And remember: glowing skin, better digestion, and a healthier body might just start with a sip.