We've all heard this message before - drink 8-10 glasses of water each day. As I was reaching for my can of Dr. Pepper, this message that I was hearing for the umpteenth time finally grabbed my curiosity. Since I'm lucky just to get one full glass of pure water into me each day, what effect does this have on my body? Why is SO MUCH water recommended? Would I feel different if I drank more?
After grabbing a cold glass of water, I cozied up to my computer for some Internet research. Taken from a multitude of official and unofficial sources, the following is a quick summary of my more impressionable findings.
Water is important in the daily functioning of our bodies. Since about 65% of the body weight is water, no doubt that water performs a number of tasks. It is the main component of blood, urine, lymph, sweat and digestive juices. It helps to produce energy, regulate body temperature, build new cells, lubricate joints, eliminate waste, remove toxins and deliver nutrients. It even helps "plump" your skin, leaving it clear and moisturized. Even your brain is 90% water, and when it cannot maintain that level, it will pull water away from all other parts of the body - to their detriment.
Water is a fantastic tool in our quest for weight loss. Water ensures that digestion and your metabolism are working at their optimum level. Plus, by drinking 8 glasses a day, you can help curb your appetite because of it's filling effect. Also, water is important in reducing fat deposits in the body by helping to mobilize stored body fat. As an added benefit, water will also relieve fluid retention problems. If you don't give your body enough water, it will intentionally store water in order not to lose it. You will exercise more effectively and at higher levels. Finally, since muscles are made up of 70% water, as you build more, you will require more water.
There are a couple tips on water intake. As a minimum, drink 64 ounces per day, with an additional 8 ounces per day for every 25 pounds overweight or for every hour of exercise. It's better to drink cold water, because it is absorbed quicker and may burn more calories. Lastly, try to drink clean water that is bottled or filtered. Fruit and vegetable juices will count towards your water intake, but any coffee, tea, alcohol, or soft drinks are considered diuretics. This means they have a dehydrating effect, counting against your water intake count!
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Lisa LeClaire is the owner of Fundamental Expressions Gift Baskets http://www.fegifts.com
and the publisher of The Gift Grapevine E-Zine. Deliver your expression
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