We have all been told to drink eight glasses of water per
day, but for most of us, we do not. Many say "I am not
thirsty," "water is boring," "do not think about it," or "I
just cannot drink it!" Many do not know that every cell in the
body needs water to function appropriately.
The body is made up of approximately 75 per cent water. This
varies based on the amount of lean muscle you have.
The more muscle, the more water per cent. Therefore the body is
in constant need of water to ensure muscle function is healthy.
We naturally lose water through our lungs when we breathe, with
sweating (varies depending on how active you are) and bathroom
breaks.
Many health experts say that 80 per cent of our country is
actually dehydrated. But many believe they drink plenty
throughout their day because of other fluids such as coffee,
tea, and sodas. These caffeinated drinks actually promote fluid
loss, therefore supporting dehydration in our bodies. Other
diet drinks can cause fluid retention, which does not promote
cell hydration.
Did you know that blood is approximately 80 per cent water?
Muscles are 75 per cent water. The brain and bones also contain
water. Our bodies need water to stay healthy. Think of the
radiator fluid (coolant) in your vehicle.
Without the right fluid, the system overheats and malfunctions.
Our bodies would not survive without water.
Water is required for absorption of vitamins and nutrients,
detoxification in the liver, removal of waste in the kidneys,
and digestion of foods and GI health. With proper hydration,
you will benefit from improved energy; mental and physical
performance; efficient removal of toxins and waste
products;  skin health; and maintaining a healthy weight.
Drinking water is a natural way to suppress your appetite as
the body sends out the same signal to drink water as to eat.
Because it is so important to stay hydrated, the check system
in the body wants fluid anyway it can get it - through liquid
or food.
So when you are hungry, drink first. You may find out that your
body is thirsty and not hungry. Water is also needed to
mobilize fat cells. So when the body is dehydrated it is harder
to lose weight.
During the summer hot days, it is so easy to get dehydrated,
especially for children and the elderly. Children are thought
to be irritable because of the heat. This is true. Without
proper hydration, the body cannot properly cool itself down, so
give children water frequently.
In the elderly population, their thirst mechanism wears out, so
by the time they realize something is wrong, they end up in
hospital with severe dehydration. To be dehydrated, one would
have to lose 10 per cent of body weight in fluids, however as
little as two per cent can present in tiredness, decreased
performance and clarity. Once dehydrated, a person becomes more
susceptible to viruses and other illness.
So get back to the basics of drinking water. It is free and
healthy.
To get into the habit of drinking water try these tips:
1. Have a glass of water upon waking and each time you eat
(before the meal). Do not wait until you are thirsty, as you
are already dehydrated.
2. Add some real lemon or lime for flavour (stay away from
commercial flavoured water).
3. Use decaffeinated herbal cold tea over ice for a nice change
to plain water.
Karen Hourtovenko RN(EC), is a health and wellness consultant from Sudbury who writes columns about healthy living for Northern Life.
