We all know the importance placed upon keeping hydrated and drinking enough water. The Eatwell Guide says we should be aiming to drink six to eight cups of fluid a day to hit our daily water intake. Water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee, all count.
The statement “water is life” plays a part in human health. Water not only improves health, but it also has a huge impact on your survival. Water takes up more than two-thirds of the human body weight and about seventy-one percent of the earth’s surfaces are comprised of it. Water is available fresh and on tap so you have no excuse for not drinking a minimum of a glass or two of water in a day.
The truth is, we often don’t drink enough water. At least not enough to keep us healthy.
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) outlines that an average male needs to consume about three litres of water daily. On the other hand, they estimate an average woman to consume about two point two litres of water daily. The following are some of the tips you should inculcate into your dieting and fitness regime with respect to water.
First thing is first.
Ditch the alcohol.
Or at the very least, know that alcoholic drinks do not count.
I’m sorry.
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means that it helps in the discharge of water from the body and this can lead to chronic dehydration. Switching to alcohol free versions of your favourites is a good substitute, or you could opt for a sparkling tea non alcoholic style for something a little different. Other drinks of a diuretic nature include caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and colas. If you don’t want to quit entirely, go for moderation.
It’s easy to assume that dehydration is only an issue in hot weather. The truth is, even without hot weather we are prone to dehydration. The key mode of preventing dehydration is ensuring that your daily water intake is not determined by your level of thirst.
Drink as much water as you can when you can, and be sure to monitor your intake. Your body emits a lot of fluid through sweating, among other ways. You owe a duty to your body to replace the water it loses.
Dehydration occurs when this is not balanced. If the body loses more water than it takes in then you are bound to suffer from severe dehydration. Ensure you stay hydrated during exercise, hot weather, or daily activities. Make sure you always carry a bottle of water as you go about your daily activities. Keeping a bottle to hand will act as a reminder to take a sip every so often, and will prevent you from becoming dehydrated.
