Feeling not quite well?  Tired or achy? Not able to concentrate? You might be ill, but you might just need to increase your amount of water for your health.

waterfall 1Almost everyone has heard that you need to drink at least 8 cups of water a day. Some newer suggestions involve taking your weight into account and then adjusting for your activity level.

 Calculate your daily water needs

In reality, each person’s needs will be slightly different and the food we consume will also affect our need for additional water.  A person eating mostly fresh, raw vegetables and fruit will require less additional water than that same person eating mostly drier foods.  Eating healthy soups will also decrease your extra water demands.

So how do you determine how much is enough water for your health?  Your body will tell you, if you watch for cues.  One of the main indicators most people know is that of thirst.  Our brain tells us we need to drink.  Another sign can be found in our urine: when we are properly hydrated, our urine is a very light color, almost clear.

See the chart and explanation at water health

water 1

Some essential considerations for drinking water for your health include the source, the quality, and even the temperature.  Municipal water will be purified and filtered, but may not be palatable to all.  Bottled water brands are usually consistent in taste, but bottles are quite wasteful and expensive.  Several good filtration systems exist for your home and the purchase of a quality storage container will enable you to have quality water available at all times.

 

 

Information on water filtration systems can be found at:

Dr. Mercola water article

Water Filter Options

10 Facts about Water

  • Starting your day with a cup of warm water with lemon juice added can aid digestion through the day
  • Herbal tea counts toward your daily water intake
  • Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables can account for 20% of your fluid intake.
  • Drink water throughout the day, especially when you are active or outside.
  • Drinking enough water helps maintain a healthy digestive system and normal bowel function
  • Water is used by the body to cleanse the body of toxins and waste products
  • Water helps keep skin hydrated, reducing or eliminating wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Muscles require water to work well. Athletes know that proper hydrating begins long before they perform.
  • Drinking enough water helps control your appetite and can aid in weight loss.
  • Often people think they are hungry when they are actually thirsty.

 

For more information on water: Benefits of drinking water

 

 

 

 

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