Water Water Water

Water, Agua, Aqua, Tubig, Wasser, Eau, Vand, Vann, Vatten 水물水

Water is important, no matter how you may say or write it. And most of us don't drink nearly enough!

Water is essential for the body to function properly and actually makes up more than 75% of your body. Often times your body will be dehydrated or in need of water before you even have the "thirsty" sensation. We cannot survive with out it! 

Not only does our body run off water, but by drinking adequate amounts of water every day you will feel the many benefits. Some of which include; losing weight, having clear/radiant skin, feeling more energized, experiencing less hunger pangs, maintaining strong muscles and bones, and having healthy hair and nails (to name a few). Throughout the day you lose water through your breath, sweat, urine, and bowel movements. This water needs to be replaced in order to stay healthy. If not, then you could become dehydrated. If you do become dehydrated, the body will not have enough fluid to get blood to your organs, which is very dangerous! In other words water helps keep your entire system in balance! Get the picture? WATER IS ESSENTIAL. Are you drinking enough? It's time to evaluate your water intake.

So how much water are you supposed to drink?

There really isn't a set amount because everyone is different, but the Institute of Medicine advises that men and women try to consume 2.7 to 3.7 liters of water a day. Obviously you don't want to drink too
much, but that is hard to do if you are sipping it through out the day rather than gulping down a gallon all at once. I usually bring close to a gallon with me to work. If I don't have it sitting in front of me at my desk, then I generally will forget to drink it. 

"But when I drink more water I have to go to the restroom every 20 minutes..." 

Sound familiar?  Well, if you start drinking more water and notice that you have to go to the restroom more than is tolerable, then decrease the amount a little and keep it the same for 3 days. It takes about that long for your body to adjust to the new amount. After it adjusts some, add more, then do it again.  Also keep in mind that other fluids help with your water intake. Even eating raw fruits and vegetables is a great way to add more fluids into your diet. But remember that water is the best source for water ;) 

CHEERS! Now go drink some water!

Photo Credit: globalhealingcenter.com