Water Water Everywhere…How much should we drink and why?

Did you know that our bodies consist of about 75% water? We need water for every joint, every organ, every system and in fact, every cell in our bodies require water to perform optimally.

How much water do we need to consume?

Some think that 64 ounces of water daily is adequate for everyone, but that does not take into account differences in body types, sex, activity levels, environmental factors such as humidity and temperature or any other differences that may require more or less water consumption.

There are others who believe that using the body weight of the individual in the calculation of how much water to consume is a more accurate way to determine water needs. Consumption of half the body weight in ounces of water will ensure proper hydration in most cases (e.g. a person weighing 150 pounds would need about 75 ounces of water daily).

Why do we need water?

Water is vital for the proper function of every cell in the body. It helps to form the saliva needed to begin the digestive process. It supports proper brain function and the development of hormones and neurotransmitters. Water helps to regulate body temperature through perspiration and respiration. It assists in the removal of waste and toxins from the body. It helps to break down food into a useable form for our cells to be nourished. It helps to lubricate the joints and keep the organs supple and functioning. Water aids in the transmission of oxygen to all the cells in the body. Every aspect of the body works better when adequate fresh clean water is consumed.

Beyond the daily needs of adequate water consumption, for general good health we need water to regulate blood pressure, maintain kidney health,  and optimize exercise performance.  Healthy skin requires adequate hydration.

Water can be obtained from foods like fruits and vegetables and other water containing foods but most should be acquired through drinking clean fresh water.

If drinking plain water is not appealing, you can squeeze a little fresh fruit juice into it for flavor. Drinking caffeine free herbal tea is acceptable as well.

Beverages that should NOT be used as a substitute for water are those containing caffeine, alcohol and sugar or artificial sweeteners. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics and will exacerbate dehydration and sugar and artificial sweeteners add extra calories and carcinogenic chemicals to the body.

When given the choice between water and other beverages, water is always the wiser choice. Try it…you might be surprised at how much better you will feel fully hydrated.

As a health coach, I work with women to find their power to overcome health challenges and live a fuller, happier, more energetic life. If you would like to have a free consultation about the health challenges you have and the improvements you would like to see in your health, click www.karensammer.com/contact to schedule a no strings attached call.