The Weather is Warming, Time for THAT Question again: Are you getting enough water?
Posted on Apr 27, 2012 | Comments (0)
As an unseasonably warm winter fades into an even warmer spring, people are already wondering what the summer has in store temperature wise. Whatever level the mercury rises to, however, there’s no doubt we will all hear the warning: “Stay Hydrated.” So just how do you follow the advice? While it’s tempting to drink iced tea or an ice cold soda when it’s hot, the reality is that it’s not good for you. There are too many calories and too much sugar, not to mention the cost. Water is best, and cheapest. But that, of course, begs the question; how much water should you drink?
A report from the Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283 explains your body is about 60% water and every organ needs water, from flushing out toxins to carrying nutrients throughout your body. A lack of water leads to dehydration, which can make you tired and lead to a build-up of toxins in the body. It also makes it harder for the body to control its temperature.”
In general, doctors advise drinking eight to nine cups of fluid a day and even more if you’re going to be in the summer heat. It doesn’t need to be just water, as all fluids count towards the total, but when it’s really hot it’s best to stay away from liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar. Here’s the reasoning: You lose about one-point-five liters (six point three cups) in urine. Breathing, sweating and bowel movements account for another four cups. You’ll take in 20% of the fluids you need from food, which means you’ll need to consume about two liters of fluid (about eight cups) just to break even. That’s why more fluids are needed if you’re going to be out in the sun.
Here’s a good rule of thumb. If you drink enough fluids that you rarely feel thirsty, your body is telling you that you’re on the right track.
So grab that cold glass of water. Cheers!