Water and Health
The Importance of Hydration
Water and hydration play a crucial role in a healthful lifestyle.
Hydration is the replacement of body fluids lost through sweating, exhaling and elimination. Proper hydration does more than just keep you from getting thirsty.
Water carries nutrients and oxygen to all cells in the body.
Water helps convert food into energy.
Water protects and cushions vital organs.
Water lubricates joints.
Water regulates body temperature.
Water moistens oxygen for breathing.
Interesting Facts:
The body can last up to six weeks without food, but only days without water.
Dry, itchy skin or headaches may be signs of dehydration.
When you’re asleep you lose as much or more water as when you’re awake.
You need as much water in cold weather as in warm weather.
Tips for Proper Hydration.
- Drink at least eight 8-oz. servings of water each day. The more time you spend outside, the more water you need to replenish lost fluids.
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. By the time you feel thirsty; you probably have already lost two or more cups of your total body water.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Convenience is a must, so carry a bottle of water with you as you commute to work, run errands or enjoy a day at the beach. If finding time to drink water is a problem, keep a bottle of water at your desk. Or visit the office water cooler and take a water break rather than a coffee break.
- Once you start exercising, don’t stop drinking. Keep a bottle of water with you and take frequent water breaks.
- Don’t underestimate the amount of fluids lost from perspiration. You need to drink two cups of water for each pound lost following a workout.
- Start and end your day with a serving of water. Your body loses water while you sleep. So drink a serving before bed and again when you wake up.
- Don’t forget common maladies such as colds and the flu can frequently lead to dehydration. Keep a large bottle of water next to your bed so you can sip it throughout the day without having to get up.
- Make sure your children drink enough water. Children need water to balance their intake of other beverages – especially during activities. Packing bottled water in a child’s lunch instead of juice or regular soda can also help prevent childhood obesity.