5. Dehydration is a very common problem that nearly every one of us
experiences at some time. Every cell in our body requires water to
function—to bring in nourishment and carry away toxins. When these functions
aren't performed fully due to dehydration, a range of symptoms can occur. At
even 1% dehydration, most people get thirsty, which is the body's warning
sign. Dehydration can cause dry mouth, flushed skin, fatigue,
lightheadedness, headache, or impaired physical performance, as well as
lapses in concentration. Headache may be a sign of increased toxicity. Other
problems from more chronic dehydration include constipation and poor
digestive function, dry and itchy skin, a reduction in urine output, and
even an increased incidence of painful kidney stones. Remember my favorite
slogan, "Dilution is the solution to pollution." So, drink your water!
6. Add some nutrients to your water and it may make it healthier and more
palatable for you. Some folks do not like to drink plain water; they just
have distaste for it. If so, try various bottled waters to see if there is
one you like. Add some lemon, lime, or a tea bag to give it some flavoring.
Water can also be flavored with some orange or apple juice, or some nutrient
powders like Emergen-C or another vitamin/mineral combination available at
your store. My family starts each day with nutrient-rich water and juice.
Warming drinks include herbal and green teas, lemon water, chai, and
vegetable broth. Starting the day with a cup of hot water can awaken you and
your digestion. Hot water sipped through the day is a popular therapy for
illness in Asia.
7. The best time to drink water is first thing in the morning--ideally two
or three glasses. I also encourage people to drink between meals rather than
too much while eating, as increased fluids dilute the strength of our
digestive juices and lower the efficiency of digestion and assimilation. For
those working to lose weight, drinking a couple glasses of H2O about 30
minutes before meals will hydrate the tissues, calm the appetite and likely
lower the amount of food consumed. Water is also so important to healthy
skin and good circulation, to staying young and healthy. To summarize, the
ideal times to drink water are:
- First thing in the morning, when you wake up
- Mid-morning
- Mid-afternoon
8. Water and weight loss is an important topic, so here’s a bit more. Focus
mainly on vegetables and other wholesome foods and away from processed and
sweetened high-calorie foods and snacks. Definitely switch from the caloric,
sugary sodas and other drinks to pure Water. And drink several glasses when
arising and 30 minutes before planned meals. Make this a priority, and make
it fun and tasty. Review Tips number 6 and 7 above for further ideas, plus
number 3 for your exercise motivation. Carry water with you so you have it
available. Have a couple fruits daily, plus make and consume homemade
vegetable soups.
9. Kids need water too. Children don’t handle heat and dehydration as well
as adults, and the younger they are, the greater the concern. Diarrhea and
subsequent dehydration and malnourishment may be the number one cause of
death in kids throughout the world. Elders need water too. They are also
sensitive to dehydration and the effects of hot weather. Heating and cooling
of the body can be accomplished with warm or cool foods and beverages. This
is a natural inclination, yet it may need to be developed in this world
where kids (and all of us) are exposed to relentless advertising. Drinking
warm/hot water and teas is a good habit for those living in the colder
climates. Adding splashes of juice is helpful in getting kids to drink water
instead of sugary beverages. Also, adding a nutrient powder, many of which
are nicely flavored, provides a good start to a child’s day, or as
replenishment after a busy or active time. For children who are overweight
or who are fixated on sodas and sugary drinks, it will be a great lifetime
health benefit to switch them to water and lighter drinks, such as juice and
carbonated water combinations. Be a good example by drinking your water too!