Many people simply do not like to drink tap water. And would rather consume water in a more palatable form like vitamin enriched water or flavored water.
Many sports enthusiast might insist bottled water is better. Dehydration is dehydration. And it is more important to focus on drinking the proper amount of water each day. Instead of debating over the virtues of plain vs designer water.
Researchers find most people barely drink enough water to fight off de-hydration during the summer. And once the thirst strikes you are probably already dehydrated. And did you know that the average person should drink about 8 glasses of water a day to stay fully hydrated? This might seem like a lot of water to ingest for the person who can't bear to consume even one glass but it is important to one's overall health.
What Happens If We Don't Consume Adequate Water
Dehydration happens when a person does not consume enough water for their body to work properly. Dehydration slows down bodily functions. And the person suffering dehydration symptoms is usually very lethargic and tired. It helps to think of water as fuel that makes the body go. And without proper fuel the body simply fails to function properly.
Who Requires More Water
People who exercise a lot or have a job where a lot of energy is expended require more water. Also, those fighting an illness have higher water requirements. Usually consuming an extra 1 or 2 glasses per day is enough to make up for this loss. But requirements vary widely. One must take into consideration the individuals age, weight, general health.
Other Water Sources
Plain old water out of the tap is the best water source. But many vegetables also contain a tremendous amount of water. For example, watermelons and tomatoes are actually great sources for water. These vegetables are about 90 percent water according to researchers. And beverages like milk, juice, tea, coffee, carbonated beverages are good additional water sources. Still plain water is the best source because it is free of calories.
How to Get Recommended Water Requirements
Eat water packed fresh fruit. Double up on watermelon, cantaloupes, peaches. And other fresh fruit in season.
Carry a 16 oz bottle of water with you when you are outside especially in the summer. If you start feeling dizzy, sluggish, tired. (Signs of dehydration) Find a shady spot. And take a quick cool drink of water.
Drink a glass of water with each meal and between each meal to make sure you ingest adequate amounts of water daily.
Hydrate before, during, and after strenuous exercise. And make sure you drink adequate amounts of water to replace water lost sweating, through exertion, and heavy breathing.
Drink in moderation at social gatherings or substitute sparkling water. Alcohol has a tendency to rob thebody of water. Thus adding to dehydration.
Water is good for the body but it can be over done. Reports have surfaced concerning athletes who overdosed on water after a strenuous workout. Water overdose occurs when the kidneys are not able to get rid of large amounts of water. The body's electrolytes are heavily diluted resulting in low sodium
levels in the blood. A condition called hyponatremia develops. This is a very rare occurrence.
In conclusion, consult your family doctor for more information on adequate water requirements for the body.
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