Win by drinking WATER!

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How many of us go through the day feeling hungry at all times, tired, dry, oily, and with a dull headache?  What if there was a simple cure?  Not all ailments have a simple cure but would you believe that being under-hydrated or dehydrated can cause us to feel all of those mentioned above?

So, how much water does an average healthy adult, living in a temperate climate need?  Well, it is safe to say that sedentary individuals should get about 64 ounces of water per day or to drink when thirsty.  (Easy to remember 8 X 8).  However, according to the Mayo Clinic:
"The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly about 13 cups (3 liters) of total beverages a day. The AI for women is about 9 cups (2.2 liters) of total beverages a day."

Women that are nursing, very active individuals, those that live in hot weather or very dry climates, and individuals suffering from a bout of vomiting and diarrhea all need higher daily amounts of water.

And yes, you must drink clean, plain water.  I suppose with the exception of infusing it with a squirt of lemon or lime or slicing some other types of fruit and letting it sit in a pitcher of water.  Please don't count those glasses of iced tea, juice, milk, or soda!

According to the CDC, water helps your body:

  • Keep your temperature normal
  • Lubricate and cushion joints
  • Protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues
  • Get rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements

The daily water intake recommended for children and teens can vary greatly according to level of activity, climate, and health status.  The best way to determine and gauge your child's water intake needs would be to monitor their color of urine.  It needs to be clear!

Tricks to getting enough water:

  • Monitor your urine output, are you going enough and when you go, is it clear?  If it is yellow or looks like apple juice...start chugging! (Side note: multivitamins and B-complex supplements will cause urine to look as if you ate a highlighter.)
  • How are your bowel movements?  Regular and soft?  If not, chug!
  • Carry around a water bottle big enough to hold at least 24 ounces.  That way, you don't find yourself needing to constantly fill your smaller bottle or glass. 
  • Make it a priority!  You find time each day to fit in a few other nonessential activities...staying hydrated and "clean" is essential! 

Cheers to a healthy and happy Summer!
Be Well,
MLC