Water is vital to our well being. It is needed by every cell in our body to function properly. Water helps the body control its temperature, helps the body digest food and convert it to energy, helps us transport oxygen and nutrients, lubricates joints, supports metabolism, helps us get rid of waste and avoid constipation. It can also help you control your weight, improve your skin and flush toxins out of your body.It has been estimated that 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Although most of us will get enough water to survive on a day to day basis, failing to drink enough water will definitely have a huge effect on the body over time. Dehydration usually sets in before it is realized. The effects of even slight dehydration can make you cranky and irritable. Fatigue is a major side effect of dehydration, as is headache.On average, we lose 10 cups of water daily just through breathing, perspiring and the loss of body fluids. Most experts recommend that we drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. An additional 8-ounce glass should be added for every hour of moderate physical activity. Here in Colorado it is especially important to keep hydrated because of the low humidity and high altitude.Here are some hints to try to increase your water intake:
- Have a small glass of water before drinking anything else.
- Keep a pitcher of water or a water bottle with you at all times. Aim to finish the pitcher or refill your bottle so many times before the day ends.
- Drink from a straw. Many people swear it makes water go down easier
- Add slices of fruit to your water
- Freeze strawberries or blueberries in ice cubes and add to your glass
- Try setting a timer at home or at work to signal that it is time to get another glass of water. Drinking a glass of water every two hours will satisfy your water needs fairly easily.
