Water constitutes 60% of the body’s contents. Many of us are so concerned about being hydrated, that Americans are often referred to as the Hydration Nation. We carry the clear stuff with us everywhere, and everyday. Water is, after all, the essential element in carrying nutrition to our cells, and generating circulation, digestion, respiration and cardiovascular functions which are necessary to sustain life.
How Much is Too Much?
For decades people have followed the 8 plus 8 rule; 8 glasses of water, consumed in 8 ounce glasses or containers, every day. This method of hydrating has always been promoted by doctors and nutritionists; however, recent research now proves that our hydrating needs vary with our activity levels. An active lifestyle requires more hydration than a sedentary amount of movement. Illness also requires an increase in fluids, if fever is present in the body, or some kind of infection. Never drink too much water because it can be deadly. Too much water being consumed when jogging or working out, causes a reduced level of sodium in the body. Reduced sodium causes light-headedness, nausea, and swelling of the body.
The Signs of Too Little
Its important to know the signs of dehydration so that you can avoid becoming ill. The signs include: headache, thirst, fatigue, and dizziness. Many people consume other liquids to keep hydrated. Fruit juices, milk, coffee and tea are frequently substituted for water. Although these fluids do hydrate, many juices have a high level of sugar or fructose corn syrup which contains high calorie content, and the sugar has no nutritional value.
Warm Water Is Best
The best temperature to drink water is at room temperature. Warm water helps the body digest food, distribute medications, and detoxify. However, drinking cold water has no serious ill effects and if that’s the only way to enjoy it, the important point is to hydrate.
Five Facts You Need to Know
Everyone needs information about what is contained in the drinking water in their community. It’s also beneficial to know the value of nutrient enhanced water, and how to carry water with you, safely.
1) Tap water that has been put through a carbon filter to trap the lead contaminates, is just as safe to drink as any bottled water, and has more minerals than most bottled waters.
2) Nutrient enhanced water has too much sugar, usually about 32.5 grams or more, and other additives. The body cannot always absorb liquid nutrients. Read the label to check for the sugar content.
3) Water that sits in plastic bottles collects bacteria and can leach toxic chemicals from the plastic into the water. It is not possible to detect bacteria or chemicals from the taste of the water.
4) For your good health, carry water in safe containers which are made from aluminum, or glass. Plastic bottles never break down in landfills and are having a seriously negative effect on the environment.
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