Drinking for your body's health.

By: Kristina Maxwell

And now that I have your attention...let's talk about drinking more water!

We all know that appropriate water intake is necessary for optimal health. However, did you know that most scientists, doctors, and other people that study these types of things consider water the single most important nutrient for health, growth, and development? When we take into consideration that most of your organs are more than 80% water, it becomes obvious that water is critical to the balance of all body systems.

Despite the fact that the average person knows that drinking water is an important part of taking care of the body, it is estimated that 75% of people have mild, chronic dehydration. By the time thirst is perceived, the body is already dehydrated. Even mild dehydration can cause decreased endurance, decreased strength, and slow muscular response/muscle cramping. Prolonged dehydration can even result in changes to the neurological system such as decreased coordination and decreased concentration/slow thinking. 

Here are some helpful hints on how to stay hydrated:

◦                     Wake up and drink.

▪                     After sleeping 6-8 hours, your body becomes dehydrated. Drinking some water first thing in the morning will increase your metabolism and assist with preventing additional dehydration later in the day. Keep a bottle of water on your nightstand as a visual cue.

◦                     Put fruit in your water.

▪                     One of the most common reasons people cite for decreased water consumption is "not liking how it tastes". Putting fruit in your water will flavor it without adding empty calories or refined sugar. If you use berries, you will also be adding antioxidants which will also help eliminate toxins and slow the aging process.

◦                     Walk with a water bottle.

▪                     Everyone should be drinking water at regular intervals throughout the day whether thirsty or not. Always having a water bottle within reach helps with adherence to this simple plan. The temptation to buy a juice or another sugary drink is also reduced significantly by having easy access to water.

◦                     Drink more water when consuming caffiene.

▪                     Caffeine is a natural diuretic (any substance that increases diuresis aka increased production of urine).  Increase your water intake after having a coffee or a soda. It's important to also be informed if any regular medications taken are diuertics so that water intake can be adjusted accordingly.  

To find out more about how to achieve your rehabilitation goals, contact a health care professional at Align Wellness Studio.

Email info@align.ky to make an appointment. Call 640 5050 or whatsapp 923 5050.