How many ways are there to say that water is good for you?

A lot of people are walking around dehydrated. When we become thirsty, many of us reach for the drinks which then act to make us lose even more water (diuretics): caffeinated sodas, coffee, tea, and more!

Water makes up a large percentage of our body. On the average, water makes up approximately 60 percent of our body weight and its relative percentage varies with the specific organ in our body and on the type of body (lean or not so lean) that we have.

Our body has many uses for ample supplies of water:
* Helps digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients.
* Works with fiber to support regularity and end constipation. Without the water, the fiber can slow down and cause constipation and discomfort. Avoid hemorrhoids and possible surgery!
* Carries waste and toxins away from (detoxifies) the kidneys. Helps to reduce stone formation and urinary tract infections.
* Carries waste and toxins away from (detoxifies) the liver.
* Carries waste and toxins from the body in general to help keep away tension, aches, pains, & headaches.
* Helps keep blood from becoming thicker due to dehydration.
* Helps maintain body temperature. Good on hot days and when you're taking on the active lifestyle with work, sports, etc.
* Helps curb hunger and fight appetite. Drink a glass when you're hungry. If you drink a glass before a regular meal, you may cut down on the amount of food that you want.
* Helps in the fight against viruses and germs. Also, without ample water, you may become more susceptible.
* Hydrates the skin. Helps maintain a youthful appearance.
* Provides extra fluids necessary for breast feeding
* No calories. And it is good!

We lose or use water several ways:
* Lungs. You lose between two and four cups of water each day through normal breathing
* Perspiration. This increases during warm or hot weather as the body tries to regulate its temperature.
* Urination
In addition, the following must be taken into consideration where there is the potential for increased loss of body water:
* Hot or humid weather. Your body may be getting rid of water to help regulate and lower your body temperature.
* Cold weather. You may sweat wearing your extra layers of needed winter clothing. Warmer indoor temperatures to provide heating in cold weather may also cause an increase in water loss
* Sickness. If you have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may be losing even more fluids and you may even be less likely to refill your needed water requirements.

If the color of your urine is clear or pale yellow, then your water balance in your body may be okay. However, if your urine is intense yellow or darker, then you probably need more water. There are several effects of dehydration. It takes very little loss of water compared to total body weight (1 to 2 percent) before mild hydration starts. More severe symptoms are apparent with more water loss, or dehydration.
* Excessive thirst
* Fatigue
* Impaired balance
* Headache
* Dry mouth
* Little or no urination
* Muscle weakness
* Dizziness
* Lightheadedness
* Impaired thinking

What are some sources of water:
* Tap water
* Bottled water
* Food. Food can provide approximately 20 percent of your water needs. Soups and yogurt are some examples.
* Fruits and vegetables. Some fresh fruits and vegetables contain approximately 90 percent water. Good choices are citrus (like oranges and grapefruit), watermelon, tomatoes, grapes, and apples.

For those of us who may not find the flavor of water exciting, some add flavoring packets, a slice or squeeze of lemon or lime, or may even vary the choice of bottled waters that we drink.

Water is vital to a healthy body. Be sure you keep properly hydrated!

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