rice water: deep hydration

Hydration is a crucial component in overall tissue health. There are many considerations when we discuss adequate hydration. Quantity, as in number of ounces of water is important - but not the only consideration. We often suggest an average of 60 ounces, although you could be more precise with a half your body weight in ounces calculation. This varies by dosha as well, more for Vata and less for Kapha.

In Ayurveda we also consider the qualities of hydration. Is the liquid cold, cool, warm, or hot? Is it tap water, well water, or filtered? If the water has been stripped of its minerals, as in reverse osmosis water, I suggest remineralizing with Trace Minerals.

Once we attended to baseline liquid hydration, suggesting ~ 60 ounces of mineral water, taken warm or hot, and away from meals - we can look at systemic dehydration that may be underlying.

When I need a stronger hydration tool, I’ll often turn to rice water. This beverage hydrates based on qualities, not quantity. A little goes a long way.

ingredients

1 TBS organic, California, India, or Pakistan white basmati rice

16 ounces filtered water

method

Rinse rice well, and cook in water until water turns cloudy and rice begins to fall apart. Drink this 4-8 ounces with black pepper or 8 Spice Digestive. You can add 1/2-1tsp organic ghee if excess Kapha or cholesterol is not an issue, but beware that this locks the heat in and will keep your rice water VERY hot.

I like to take rice water in the morning, after my 16-20 ounces of hot water. I often use this beverage as a light breakfast. It’s a crucial hydrator for me in the fall and early winter and when I’m in dry climates, like the high desert.