Importance of Hydration

Water, water, water! Are you one of the many people who have been told you don't drink enough water? Hopefully after reading this article you will have a better understanding of why drinking water is so important.

Water is the most critical nutrient for health, growth, and development. It is also the most abundant nutrient, making up more than half your body weight. Some of the many reasons why water is so important is because it helps digest food, helps transport nutrients and oxygen to all cells of your body, helps lubricate joints and cushions, organs and tissues, and carries waste products out of your body.

So now you are wondering how much water you need? It depends on who you are! The rule of thumb is you should get about 64oz per day or about 8 glasses per day. You don't have to get all your water intake simply by drinking it. There are many foods with a high percentage of water in them. Some examples of foods with high percentage of water are grapefruit, strawberries, watermelon, tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, and cucumbers.

Here are a few tips to help you stay hydrated!

1. Keep a bottle of water with you during the day. Consider a reusable bottle and filling it with tap water to help save costs of buying bottled water.
2. Try adding a slice of lemon or lime to give your water a little flavor.
3. If exercising, drink water before, during and after working out.
4. Start and end your day with a glass of water.
5. When feeling hungry, drink water first. It may satisfy your hunger!
6. Drink water on a schedule if you have a hard time remembering to drink water.
7. Order water with your meal when you go out to eat at a restaurant. It will also help keep the cost of going out to eat down.