Water is vital for your body to function properly. Whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall, you need to ensure that you are drinking enough water to hydrate your body and stay healthy. Dehydration can be a serious issue if it is not monitored. When in doubt, drink. Dehydration is more common that you might originally think. Some statistics say that as many as 75% of Americans may suffer from chronic dehydration. Are you drinking enough?
How much water should you drink?
The common perception is that an average adult needs to drink approximately six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water (or other suitable fluids) to stay hydrated. The truth is that some people may require more, while others need less. It depends on your body, how much you exercise, whether you are taking medication, your lifestyle and the temperature of your surroundings. If you are exercising a lot, are sick, pregnant or breastfeeding, then you may be required to increase your water intake. Your doctor will be able to advise you on how much water you need.
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What are the benefits of drinking water?
You will find it easier to concentrate
As your brain requires fluid to function at its best, it makes sense that the more you drink, the better it will operate. Hot temperatures and dehydration can seriously affect mental performance. Your focus will improve, and you will find it easier to concentrate if you are hydrated.
Your body will work better
When you are hydrated, your body performs better. Aches and pains can often be caused by lack of water so make sure you are drinking before, during and after any bouts of exercise. You will have more energy and perform at your best.
You will lose weight
If you drink water as part of a healthy diet, you can lose weight more quickly. Drinking will cut down on your urge to snack and can work as a natural appetite suppressant. Drinking water regularly will help you distinguish between those times when you are thirsty rather than hungry. It will reduce your need for those excess calories and enable you to stick to your weight loss program with confidence.
Your skin will look better
You can instantly notice when someone has radiant skin. Drinking water will help clear up any skin conditions and even make you appear younger. As a quick test, if your hands feel dry soon after applying moisturizer, then you may want to drink some more.
Your moods will improve
Dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue. Therefore it goes without saying that when you drink more, those symptoms will disappear leaving you healthier and happier. Monitor your moods and drink accordingly.
How can you tell if you are drinking enough water?
If you take a quick glance at your urine the next time you go to the bathroom, it will give you a good indication. Dark yellow urine means you are not drinking enough. Light yellow or clear urine means you are taking in enough water. Soft bowel movements, over hard bowel movements or constipation, should also be a good sign.
If your mouth feels dry, then you need to drink more. Likewise, with your skin and eyes. If you always feel tired or your muscles ache, then it could also be a sign of dehydration. Being consistently hungry could also be another signal to increase that tap water. If you are struggling to recover from a cold or other infection, then you may need to increase your fluid intake to compensate. Listen to your body and gauge how much water you should be drinking.
How can I increase my water intake?
Even if you don’t like the thought of drinking tap water, sparkling water or low-calorie fruit-infused water can add to your liquid intake. Drink a glass of water before you brew the coffee or make the tea. If necessary, keep a water bottle or glass of water on hand when you are working. In between tasks you can stop to take a sip. Opt for a water bottle when out and about and each time you walk past a drinking fountain, take a sip.
Drinking water does not have to be a chore. Remember, that it is one of the best things you can do for your body.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: