It’s easy to trust Tracy Anderson. Not only does she have over a decade of training stars ranging from Madonna and Jennifer Lopez to Lena Dunham to Hilary Rhoda under her belt, but she has the kind of electric energy and clear complexion that can only come with living the healthy lifestyle she preaches. She recently posted the above image to her Instagram reminding us, like she regularly does her clients, that it’s imperative to hydrate. Often when we think we’re hungry, we’re actually just thirsty. So next time you want to reach for chocolate, reach for water and wait 10 minutes. If you still want that chocolate, eat it, but you just might find that water did the trick. You’ll also notice that increasing your water intake can be the missing piece if your skin is tired, dull, and dry. Odds are you’ve heard it before, but our bodies are made mostly of water, so it’s critical to get a lot of it to, in addition to keeping skin healthy, keep joints lubricated, protect internal tissues, regulate body temperature and perspiration (the body’s natural AC…), and remove waste (so if you’re feeling bloaty, it may seem counterintuitive, but drink more water and it will help flush your system).
However, not all water is created equal (as anyone who has been to Colette’s Water Bar – which has hundreds of different kinds – can tell you!). In addition to flavor, some water is infused with added benefits. We all know Smartwater’s electrolytes and now HFACTOR has launched hydrogen-rich water. It’s naturally infused with what they say is “an optimal level of hydrogen” to help “improve athletic performance and recovery; increase energy levels; and relieve fatigue, hangovers, allergies, jet lag, skin irritation, inflammation, and circulation.” I have my doubts about these lofty claims even though their website has research to back it, but it’s one of the most refreshing waters I’ve ever tasted. Unlike so many popular ones – think Evian – HFACTOR is tasteless so it goes down super easy. It also comes packaged in aluminum pouches which you have to put a straw into to drink (versus a traditional bottle). This is annoying BUT it forces me to drink the whole pouch ensuring I drink more than I otherwise would. HFACTOR aside, like Anderson, I’m also partial to FIJI which is similarly refreshingly tasteless and now comes in 700ml bottles to fit into car cup holders (so I learned from Anderson’s Instagram post since I rarely drive!). For those that feel guilty about wasting bottles and pouches, but don’t for whatever reason opt for a reusable bottle, Boxed Water Is Better comes in eco-friendly carton packaging.
If all else fails, load up on watermelon! It’s in season and 92% water!
What’s your go-to way to stay hydrated?