As summer descends upon us, it’s a good time to remind ourselves to increase our water intake since our body's need for water increases.
Water makes up about 60 - 75 percent of your body weight, and every organ in your body heavily depends on water to function properly. For example, water carries oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells, removes toxins, regulates body temperature, and protects your spinal cord, joint and vital organs... Rehydration is important to avoid the cellular dehydration and subsequent health problems.
Signs of mild dehydration
- Dark yellow urine
- Thirst
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Constipation
Adequate water consumption will reward you with...
- Weight Loss – Water is filling without adding any calories and helps to metabolize fats. Drinking water between meals makes you feel fuller. As a result, you will eat less, enabling you to lose weight.
- Energy – Water can help you to feel better and more energetic. Being dehydrated can lead to an overall feeling of exhaustion.
- Concentration – Hydration enhances your brain function, improving your mental focus and concentration.
- Cleansing – Your body uses water to flush out toxins and bacteria from the body.
- Beautiful Skin - Adequate daily water intake can help to replenish skin tissues from inside and make your skin look smoother and healthier.
- Kidney Function – Water can save you from kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
How much to drink?
Feeling thirsty usually means you are already dehydrated, so ideally you need to drink when you’re not thirsty at regular times throughout the day. Individual needs vary depending on factors including climate, your health and how active you are, but good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounce of water each day. For example, a 150 lb. person needs to drink 75 oz. of water per day. Also, you know you’re on the right track when your urine is more clear or pale yellow. (“Your Body’s Many Cries for Water” by Dr. Batmanghelidj)