Your brain needs water to function. The brain is 85% water and dehydration contributes to problems with memory and learning as well as brain fog.
Many times the pangs you interpret as hunger are really your body asking for hydration. Drink a glass of water before you reach for a snack.
How can you get more water in each day?
Start your day with warm water (before coffee!). After 7-8 hours of sleep, your entire body is dehydrated. You lose water through breathing and perspiration as you sleep and upon awakening, your body will appreciate replacement.
Typical beverages in the morning which contain caffeine increase the need for water and do not replace this vital nutrient. The effects on your kidneys will be detrimental over time. Replace water lost by having water as your first beverage of the day.
Another easy way to get more water in each day is to fill a container with half your body weight (pounds) in ounces of water. Drink this throughout the day, finishing the container before bed.
If you weigh in at 140 pounds, for example, your container should hold 70 ounces. This is the minimum; you can always drink more (within reason). If you live in a dry climate or are working up a sweat during the day, then definitely drink more water!
Be conscious of how much water you consume and start your day with a glass-full. Check in with your body to see if, instead of hunger, thirst needs to be satisfied. If you feel fatigued, try drinking water. Remember, caffeine (coffee, tea) is a diuretic and may increase your need for plain water.