Today it’s common knowledge that you need to drink plenty of water to be healthy and active.  But many of the people we train and coach are interested in 3 key questions:

• Why specifically should I drink water?
• How much water should I drink per day?
• If drinking more water is important, how can i get into the habit of drinking as much as I need each day?

 
Why do you want to drink water?

Drinking enough water is essential to your body

• Our bodies are roughly 60% water – and water is required for our circulation, muscles, joints, kidneys and other parts of the body to function properly
• Toxins get flushed out by water
• Water increases your metabolism (you burn more calories)
• Healthy skin – and a “healthy glow” to your skin
• Overall having plenty of water gives you a sense of well-being

But what happens when we become dehydrated?

• You feel fatigued and have that “mental fog” feeling – you have a loss of energy and less motivation to exercise
• Weight loss slows down or totally stops
• Digestion suffers (constipation, mal-absorption)
• Your body confuses “thirst” for “hunger” – causing you to eat more
• You retain water (puffiness and weight gain)
• You may experience dry skin, acne, etc.

How much water should I drink each day?

There is a lot of discussion on how much “is optimal” for a person to drink daily.  The Mayo Clinic recommends 13 cups for men and 9 for women – but naturally the larger you are the more water your specific body needs.  Others simplify this and say 10 – 12 cups per day.  For myself I make this even easier – I drink 1 gallon of water per day (128 ounces or 16 cups).

But what actually counts for your “water intake”?  Water and herbal teas count – but other drinks DO NOT (e.g., soda, coffee, etc.).  Caffeinated drinks act as a diuretic and actually cause your body to excrete more fluids.

How do I start my “Healthy Water Habit”?

Knowing “what” you should do is a start, but actually “doing” it each day requires focus.  Fortunately there are a few simple things that can help you start this healthy life habit.

• Carry a Bottle: I find it helpful to carry a large water bottle with me all day and keep refilling it.  Better yet – try carrying a 1 Gallon water jug so you know throughout the day how much you have left to drink
• Set a Reminder: Set your watch alarm to remind you each hour to drink your water!
• Substitute Water For Other Drinks: If you normally have coffee, soda or other beverages – try drinking water instead.
• Exercise: Exercising will make you want to drink more water – drink before, during and after you exercise!
• Track It: Measuring yourself is a great way to establish a new habit – and to motivate yourself through success.   Track your glasses of water and track the days where you reach your goal.

Follow these simple steps to start establishing this very healthy life habit!

Here’s toasting to your success!

Trish Reitan                                                            Jon Reitan

NFPT Certified Personal Trainer                                 NFPT Certified Personal Trainer

NFPT Certified Nutrition Coach                                  NFPT Certified Nutrition Coach

Hosts of the “Younger This Year” Radio Show

trish@youngerthisyear.net                              Jon@YoungerThisYear.net

DISCLAIMER

**This article’s goal is to provide you with information that may be useful in attaining optimal health. Nothing in it is meant as a prescription or as medical advice. You should check with your physician before implementing any changes in your exercise or lifestyle habits, especially if you have physical problems or are taking medications of any kind