Even a mild dehydration can affect your short-term memory, concentration and cause fatigue. Another thing many are unaware of is that keeping your body hydrated can reduce back and joint pain in as many as 80% of sufferers.
As a general rule, unless you have a medical condition that doesn’t allow you to, adults should drink 8 glasses of pure water every day. If you are overweight you should drink 1 glass extra for every 20 pounds you are overweight, and if you are working out you should add 1 glass for every 20 minutes of workout.
Water can improve your health in many ways, for those trying to loose weight, it helps suppress hunger, it helps your metabolism and when your body sees it is getting a constant supply of fresh water every day, it will release all the excess water it stored when supply was less frequent.
Other benefits include helping cleans your body of waste and toxins, improve your skin moisture, improves absorption of vitamins and nutrients, better digestion and increased energy levels.
The best source is pure water, depending on the quality of your tap water, you should consider attaching a water purifier to your tap, or get bottled water.
You should not count sodas and coffee against you water consumption, the 8 or more glasses should come in addition to other beverages you drink.
So, if you are suffering from e.g. headaches, dry skin, dizziness or constipation, you may be dehydrated, and should try drinking at least 8 glasses of pure water every day.
Tips to help you drink enough water
* Have water within reach at all times. Carry around a bottle of water when you are on the move.
* Add a little flavor to your water (e.g. lime or lemon) now and then for variety.
* Buy a water filter for your home, this will improve the quality and taste of your tap water and lower the cost if you normally only drink bottled water.
No more excuses, go get hydrated.
Note: This is not medical advice. You should always consult your doctor before making any big changes to your eating and drinking habits.
