Your body is approximately 60% water, therefore, you need it to survive. I understand that some people prefer drinking pop or other flavorful beverages, but those do not provide the same benefits as water. For example, pop and other caffeinated drinks are diuretics, which means they release water from the body rather than replenish it. They are also generally high in calories, carbohydrates, and sugar, which can take a toll on your daily intake if you consume several in one day. Water is the most beneficial drink for your body. So, drink up and read up on these water facts!
Health benefits of water:
1. Water assists with organ and joint function. It serves as lubrication to keep your insides healthy and functioning at their optimal level. Water also breaks down the nutrients in your food and transports them to the necessary organs.
2. Water clears your skin. Goodbye acne, hello glowing skin!
3. Water regulates your body temperature.
4. Water will help rid your body of bacteria. Forget 'an apple a day will keep the doctor away', just drink more water!
5. Water promotes weight loss by suppressing hunger. We often think we are hungry when in reality we need water.
6. Water is especially important if you live an active lifestyle. All of that muscle you are trying to build isn't going to come easy, but having a low water intake will prolong the process even more. Your muscles are about 70% water, so keep hydrated!
How to be prepared:
When you start to feel thirsty, dehydration has already set in. If you know you have a busy day ahead of you, stock up on water bottles and keep one with you at all times - at the office, in your car, at the gym, and definitely next to your bed for when you wake up in the middle of the night feeling parched. Another alternative is to eat fruits and veggies that are made up of mostly water, such as watermelon, strawberries, celery, or tomatoes.
You can calculate your recommended daily water intake by multiplying your weight by 2/3 to give you the amount in ounces. If you are active, you will want to increase your daily water consumption. Make it a goal to lie between the range of your weight x 2/3 and your weight x 1. For example a 100 lb person should have 67-100 oz of water per day. I challenge you to drink 1 extra cup of water daily. You'll slowly begin to see how even a little bit can go a long way!
XOXO
- Katharine