THE IMPORTANCE OF DRINKING
WATER ...ESPECIALLY IN THE SUMMER MONTHS by Alison DeViliers
SUMMER IS AN IMPORTANT TIME to be aware of how much water we are consuming. Warm, sunny days and outdoor activities lead to an increase in sweat as your body works to keep cool. Now is the time to be particularly conscious about staying hydrated and healthy. According to the Mayo Clinic, water makes up about 60 percent of our body weight. Water is extremely important to a healthy body as it helps to transport nutrients and oxygen into cells, regulate body temperature, detoxify, protect vital organs and help them absorb nutrients and protect and moisturize our joints. Drinking plenty of water can also increase your overall quality of life by helping you to lose weight, have healthier looking skin, be more productive and feel healthier. Dehydration can have many negative consequences, such as fatigue, migraines, constipation, muscle cramps, kidney problems, dry skin, sluggish metabolism, and pH imbalance. Symptoms of dehydration include dark urine, dry skin, thirst, hunger and fatigue. If you suspect you are dehydrated, it is important to increase your water intake. While studies vary on the recommended daily water intake, it is generally accepted that you should drink at least eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day. This can vary depending on your size, how active you are, the climate you live in, your
health status, and if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. About 25 percent of our water intake is from the foods that we eat. You can increase your water intake by eating foods high in water content, such as watermelon, tomatoes, and leafy green vegetables. Beverages such as milk and juice are also composed of mostly water, but are not calorie-free like water. One way to ensure that you are drinking plenty of water is to fill a 2-liter bottle (approximately eight, 8-ounce glasses) at the beginning of each day. Make sure that it is gone by the end of the day and have a few extra glasses of water if it is especially warm or you have increased your amount of exercise. If you are not a fan of water and want to add some flavor, add a slice of lemon or other citrus fruit. So remember, the next time you reach for a soda, substitute a bottle of water. Your body will thank you.
Did You Know? • Water makes up approx. 60 percent of our body weight. • Not drinking enough water can result in dehydration. • You should drink at least eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day. • Dehydration can have many negative consequences, such as fatigue, migraines, constipation, muscle cramps, kidney problems, dry skin, sluggish metabolism, and pH imbalance. • Symptoms of dehydration include dark urine, dry skin, thirst, hunger and fatigue. @THESAFETYREPORT / THESAFETYREPORT.COM / 17