Water truly is the most underrated health and weightloss tool. Our bodies are actually composed of nearly 60% water – which means that almost every body part and function is affected by water in some way, shape or form! And did you know that most people will literally die after 3 days of not drinking water? Only THREE days!!
Water also helps with numerous other “conditions”, including:
- Flushing out waste and bacteria. Our digestive system needs water to function properly. If you are “backed up”, try drinking more water on a consistent basis!
- Drinking water will help you save calories. People often think they are hungry when they are actually thirsty.
- Reduce joint pain. Did you know that glucosamine actually works because it helps cartilage absorb water? This is what makes our cartilage soft and hydrated, and therefore less “achy”.
- Prevent headaches. Many headaches are caused by dehydration, so next time you feel an achy head coming on, try drinking more water!
- Make your skin glow. Since our skin is the largest organ of our body, it makes sense that keeping our bodies hydrated would affect the way our skin looks as well. In fact, not only can it affect the color and texture of your skin, it also affects the actual temperature, since sweating is what helps regulate the heat in our bodies.
- How we absorb nutrients. Water serves as the body’s transportation system when it comes to nutrients, and lack thereof can vastly slow or diminish the amount of nutrients our organs get.
- Perform better – both mentally and physically. If are bodies aren’t properly hydrated, we can feel foggy and not perform our daily tasks efficiently. Dehydration also prevents us from working out at our peak since water helps balance our fluid and electrolytes, which is essential to avoid muscle fatigue.
So now that you know how imperative drinking water is to help with everyday functions, here are 5 easy steps to help you drink more of it!
5 Easy Steps to Drinking More Water
- Drink half your body weight in water. So, if you weigh 130 lbs, you should be drinking 65 ounces per day of water. Yes, tea, flavored and carbonated waters count too – but coffee, soda and alcohol do not; they are actually dehydrating.
- Drink a glass of water before every meal, and have at least another ½ with each meal, as well.
- Always carry a bottle of water with you (or leave one in your car, purse, desk, etc.) – so you never actually feel thirsty. If you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables. They have a high water content and will count toward your total “fluid” intake.
- Choose beverages you actually enjoy drinking. If you like the taste, you are more likely to drink more. You can try Ultima electrolyte hydration powder for a hydration-focused mix drink that tastes great.
Now stay tuned for next week’s Tip where I continue to help you make healthy living a lifestyle! I’ll give you a hint: it has to do with our back-sides… 😉
