Are you a water drinker? Such a crazy question to ask since we need water to survive! And lets be real, drinking coffee doesn't count towards the amount of water we get to consume daily.
Although there's an awareness around this subject, I personally have had a tough time committing to a daily water drinking regime. I have every water bottle known, water apps and a daily reminder on my phone, but nothings worked for me, up until now.
I realized that when I travel, especially in Europe, I drink a ton of water. I'm not sure if it's a mental thing, but the way they serve water in a carafe with small cups makes me feel more inclined to drink it LOL
With that said, whats been working is to keep a 64oz Mason Jar of water next to my computer with a small cup. I fill the mason jar every evening so it's ready to start drinking first am, no excuses. I then fill the cup throughout the day, downing it each time to make sure I get it all in. I personally drink 1-2 64oz masons of water/day. But my suggestion is to sip water throughout the day and listen to what feels good for YOUR body! Also, herbal teas do count!
Since I've been building this habit, my skin has been brighter & clearer, my digestive system has been stronger, my stomach bloat has disappeared, I have way more energy and I'm able to workout at a new level!
*If you have a hard time drinking plain water, herbal teas count! Along with adding lemon, fresh fruit & mint! It's also great to consume fruits and veggies packed with water: watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes, cantaloupe, oranges, peaches, cucumber, lettuce, jicama, bell peppers, cauliflower, cabbage, zucchini, celery, broths & soups.
* Water lubricates the joints - long term dehydration can reduce the joints shock-absorbing ability, leading to join pain.
* It forms saliva and mucus - saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean. Consumed instead of sweetened beverages, it can also reduce tooth decay.
* Water delivers Oxygen throughout the body - blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body.
* It boosts skin health - with dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.
* It cushions the brain, spinal cord and other sensitive tissues - dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.
* Water regulates body temperature - Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin come to the skin's surface as sweat when the body heats up. As it evaporates, it cools the body.
* The digestive system relies on it! - the bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.
* Water flushes waste - water is needed in the processes of sweating and removal of urine and feces.
* Helps maintain blood pressure - a lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.
* The airways need it - when dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse.
* Water makes minerals & nutrients accessible - these dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach different parts of the body.
* Prevents kidney damage - the kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Insufficient water can lead to kidney stones & other problems.
* Boosts performance during exercise - some scientists have proposed that consuming more water might enhance performance during strenuous activity.
* Weight Loss - “preloading” with water before meals can help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.
* Reduces chance of hangover - when partying, unsweetened soda water with ice and lemon alternated with alcoholic drinks can help prevent overconsumption of alcohol.
