Water and Health

Water and health. It seems like a no-brainer that these two words go together. We all know water is healthy, and that our goal should be to drink more water. But how much do you know about the benefits of water? How does water contribute to a healthy body? What’s the connection between water and weight loss?

On the most basic level, water and health go hand in hand because we are made of water. Water is essential for life. The average human body is about 60% water. This water has to be constantly replenished because we lose water all day long through breathing, sweating, and pretty much every bodily function.

Aside from being vital for living, water is essential for any weight loss plan. Water is needed to flush out toxins and remove waste from the body. Water aids in digestion and helps carry nutrients to the proper cells and organs. When you’re trying to lose weight, it’s crucial to have enough water to help get rid of the by-products of fat breakdown. Water helps metabolize fat. Water moves food through your intestines, preventing constipation. Water also regulates body temperature and keeps your metabolism functioning properly.

Weight loss hint: drink cold water. Your body burns calories warming it up to body temperature!

Water can act as an appetite supressant – if you’re well hydrated and consuming enough water, you’re likely to eat less during meals. Since most foods contain water, if you’re thirsty you may be driven to eat more food. Replace high-calorie beverages like soda or alcohol with water, and weight loss is inevitable!

Water gives you more energy. Even the mildest dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches and weakness in the body. Hydration is great for your skin, too. You’ll look radiant, younger and more energized when you’re getting enough H20. Get hydrated, feel vibrant!

A fantastic way to hydrate is to incorporate lots of fruits and veggies into your diet. Among those with the highest water content are cucumbers, tomatoes and peaches. Yum!

So…how much water should you drink? If you’re not sure how much you need, I say drink enough so that you aren’t thirsty at all and your urine is clear like water. If the “8 glasses a day” thing works for you, go for it. I drink a bit more than that, about 3 liters a day, more if I’m exercising.

Try substituting just one beverage a day (coffee, tea, beer, wine, soda, etc) with a glass of water. Keep a bottle or glass of water near you wherever you are. Drink up, and thrive!