Drinking Water to Help with PsA

If you're like me, creating healthy habits isn't so easy. I've tried a gluten-free diet, a vegetarian diet, and even a modified paleo diet in hopes of improving my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

So, while I still struggle to find the right balance of lifestyle and diet choices, one thing is sure: I've seen lots of benefits to drinking water. And not just a glass here and there. I try to drink a gallon every day. That's 128 ounces!

The impact of staying hydrating

For me, my doctor says it is a good idea to drink a lot of water because, among other things, it helps to flush out toxins from my medications. I tend to have fewer side effects when I keep pushing the fluids in me.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“Water & Nutrition”), drinking water also has these benefits:

• Lubricating and cushioning joints.
• Protecting your spinal cord< and other sensitive tissues.
• Digesting food and absorbing nutrients.
• Getting rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.

Also, for me, my psoriasis symptoms are less severe when I drink lots of water. It helps keeps my skin hydrated, so my skin is not so dry and itchy.

Make sure you get enough water daily

I admit I have it easier than most. I have a home office, so it is easy for me to head down to the kitchen to fill up my glass. But I'm not always at home, and I've had to learn a few tricks to make sure I get enough water daily.

Here's some to consider:

Find a water bottle that works for you. Invest in a durable water bottle that you can carry with you. Many public places now offer drinking fountains with water dispensers for bottles, making it easier to keep your bottle filled.

Get it in on your break. Grab a glass of water after every bathroom break. If you drink as much water as me, you'll be in the bathroom quite often.

Order up.Make it a habit to drink only water when you're at a restaurant. There are infinite refills, and it's cheaper than soda.

Add some flavor. Add a small splash of cranberry juice or add lemon to your water to add a touch of flavor. It helps combat the boring routine of water.

Measure up
Get a gallon jug and use a permanent marker to gauge increments of ounces or hours on the jug. This will help keep you on track to meeting your daily water intake goals.

Keep your options open. You can also get water from other beverages. I like to drink hot tea, and the warmth helps the stiffness in my hands from psoriatic arthritis.

Water for your psoriatic bones

Water helps keep your system hydrated, which optimizes the body's detoxification methods and may, in turn, relieve some inflammation. When you're well-hydrated, your joints have better lubrication.

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things we can do for our health. The benefit outweighs any excuse that can be found. When you live with an autoimmune condition, keeping your body in top form should be a priority, as far as what your limits will allow you.