Water You Talking About?

Water. It makes up about 70 percent of our bodies and it covers nearly 71 percent of the earth’s surface. Since water seems to be so important to Earth and our bodies, wouldn't you think people would want to replenish the water they lose every day? But that’s not the case for many US citizens. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 43 percent of Americans are not drinking enough water!

Drinks that may seem healthy such as tea and coffee are actually diuretics and can cause you to lose the water you thought you were putting in your body. While these drinks have some great benefits, they don’t hydrate your body as well as water. Other beverages such as pop can hydrate you, BUT they are full of sugars and calories. These extra calories and sugars can lead to a wide range of health effects from cavities to obesity if they are consumed regularly.

There are a plethora of benefits to drinking enough water every day.

To name a few:
        Increase your energy levels and brain function
        Aid headache prevention and treatment
        Help you lose weight
        Increase physical performance
        Protect spinal cord and sensitive tissue
        Improves mood

        And MANY more!

               

The easiest way to start incorporating more H2O in your diet is to buy a reusable water bottle and carry it with you. At first this might sound like a hassle, but once you start drinking water regularly you won’t want to stop. If carrying around a water bottle doesn’t sound like it will fit your personal style, know that there are infinite amount of choices. Bottle options include glass, plastic, stainless steel, solid colors, and special designs.  My personal favorite water bottles have been Camelbak Eddy  and BlenderBottle SportMixer Sleek water bottles. Both of these bottles come in a variety of colors and designs and can be found on Amazon through the links above.

If you’re skeptical about the awesome benefits of staying hydrated try taking a seven day hydration challenge.  Get yourself a water bottle and drink enough that you have to refill it at least three times during the day. If you have a small 12 oz. bottle aim to refill it 5 times.  Men should aim to drink 125 ounces of water each day and women should aim for 96. While doing the challenge pay attention to your energy levels and your overall mood and see how these improve!

Ever since I started carrying a bottle around with me when I was 14 I haven’t stopped! This might sound crazy, but whenever I forget my bottle at home I get a little upset because I know I won’t feel as energized throughout the day and I’ll probably end up getting a headache. Staying hydrated may seem a bit challenging at first, but it is one of the most important healthy habits to start and keep. I hope you learn to love water as much as I do!

Happy drinking!

Josey T