Water is important to all living things on Earth and it is of vital importance to us because we are made up mostly of water.
According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), up to 60 percent of our body weight comes from water and all of our vital organs would fail to function correctly without enough water.
Makes sense then to make sure you are drinking sufficient water. Water helps flush out waste from our body; regulates body temperature; lubricates and cushions joints and helps brain function.
The body loses fluid continuously —from evaporation through the skin, breathing, urine, and stool, and these losses must be replaced daily for good health and to avoid dehydration.
Dehydration occurs when your water intake does not equal your output. It can cause unclear thinking, mood changes and overheating of the body. Symptoms of dehydration include dark yellow urine; feeling tired, lightheaded or dizzy; having dry mouth, lips and eyes; and urinating fewer than four times a day. But the most common symptom is simply feeling thirsty.
Fluid loss is accentuated in warmer climates —like here in Florida — during strenuous exercise, in high altitudes, and in older adults, whose sense of thirst may not be as sharp.
We get most of our water from drinking beverages, but food also contributes a small amount to your daily water intake, especially foods with high water content, such as many fruits and vegetables. Generally, an adult male needs about 3 liters (3.2 quarts) per day while an adult female needs about 2.2 liters (2.3 quarts) per day.
Drinking enough water every day is good for overall health. As plain drinking water has zero calories, it can also help with managing body weight and reducing caloric intake when substituted for drinks with calories, like regular soda. Try drinking a glass or two of warm water in the morning to help cleanse your system and lose belly fat.
To help you drink enough water,
- Carry a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day.
- Freeze some freezer safe water bottles. Take one with you for ice-cold water all day long.
- Choose water over sugary drinks.
- Opt for water when eating out. You’ll save money and reduce calories.
- Serve water during meals.
- Add a wedge of lime or lemon to your water. This can help improve the taste and help you drink more water than you usually do.
Always consult your personal health care provider with questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. The content in this article is for general information purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice.
