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Importance of Water
We all hear about the importance of drinking water. But just how important is it?
Water is vital to digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. It detoxifies the liver and kidneys and carries away waste from the body. Simply put, without water our body cannot digest properly. Fiber alone cannot aid in proper digeston by itself. In fact, without water, good fiber will go bad, causing constipation and extreme discomfort.
Dehydration also affects our circulation because without water, our blood is thicker, and our body has to work much harder to circulate blood throughout the body. As a result, our brain becomes less active, making it more difficult to concentrate, and we feel more fatigued.
Water increases our energy level, improves our mental and physical performance, and removes toxins and waste, keeping our skin healthy and glowing. It also aids with weight loss and reduces headaches or dizziness. What's more, The American Journal of Epidemiology (2002) said people are less likely to die from a heart attack when drinking at least two glasses of water a day.
Water and Weight Loss
Water acts as a natural appetite suppressant, so drinking water can be a long-term aid in maintaining and achieving a healthy weight. In fact, experts agree that most of the time when we think we are hungry, our body is actually signaling for water, not food. Also, when our body is dehydrated, it won't flush out the by-products of fat breakdown, and without water, our body's waste may form kidney stones, which affects the kidney's function. If the kidney isn't working properly, the liver must step in, which means it, too, is not performing optimally, and as a result, burning fat must wait. A good idea is to drink water before regular meals and see if it helps cut down on the amount of food you eat. Avoid substituting coffee, tea, soda and juices for water, as caffeine has a diuretic effect, which makes you lose water, and the body has to dilute sweet drinks causing more dehydration.
Tips for Drinking Water
Use a flavor enhancer that doesn't add sugar, preservatives or calories to your water. Many nutritionists recommend True Lemon, True Lime and True Orange, the original crystallized lemon, lime and orange, which are free of artificial sweeteners, calories and carbohydrates. They are all-natural and easier to use and carry than fresh lemons or limes. Plus, adding fresh lemon, lime or orange flavor to your water bottle can be as easy as a tear of a packet.
Since you are naturally thirsty in the morning, drink a glass of water when you wake up. This will help your body flush out the toxins it processed during the night.
Carry a reusable water bottle of water with you everywhere you go. Before you know it, you'll be reaching for the bottle without a second thought.
When you're hungry for a snack, drink a glass of water instead. Your body is likely telling you to drink water anyway, and it's better than succumbing to unhealthy snacks.
If you would normally drink a soda or an alcoholic beverage, get a glass of water instead. Try sparkling water instead of alcohol at social functions.
