Vital Resource
Water is a vital resource for all living organisms. In fact, the human body is sixty percent water. It is beneficial to the body because it helps maintain the balance of body fluids and regulating body temperature. It also helps with some of the body system functions such as digestion, absorption and circulation. Keeping the body systems functioning properly is a big reason why we should drink water, but how much water should an individual drink?
Consumption
Consumption is based on an individual basis. Someone who is sedentary may not need the same amount to replenish the body and cells as someone who is physically active. Health resources commonly recommend drinking half a gallon of water daily, while other sources recommend drinking half your body weight in water. The important takeaway is that we should constantly be drinking it throughout the day. So exactly when should we be drinking it?
I personally try to make it my number one beverage of choice, but like other individuals, I too fall prey to my cravings for something with flavor. The trick here is moderation. It’s ok to have that glass of coke if you crave it or add the packet of flavoring to your water to spice it up a bit. We just do not want to fall into the habit of only drinking sodas and juices on a consistent basis. You should always drink more water than any other beverage on a daily basis.
So, the next question is, when is the best time to consume it? Water is most beneficial to the body when consumed first thing in the morning. It helps the body to wake up and get your circulatory and digestive systems going. If you are trying to eat in moderation then consuming it before a meal is helpful, as it will help you feel more full and you will eat less. If you are physically active it is important to drink during and after your workout to prevent dehydration. It is also good to drink a glass before bed because it helps hydrate the body while it is repairing itself, as well as clearing toxins from the body. Though we should constantly drink it, we have to be aware of its source.
You should make sure you are getting in enough to maintain balance within the body and maximize its effects by drinking it at opportune times. Here are some tips to ensure you drink plenty of water:
- Drink a glass as soon as you wake up
- When you are hungry, drink a glass of water and wait 5 minutes to see if you were actually hungry
- Carry a bottle around with you all day
- After you workout, drink a glass as soon as possible
- Try drinking different temperatures of water
- Drink at least one glass with each meal
- Drink a glass before you go to bed
It is a vital life resource that we can not live without and who wouldn’t want healthy skin, hair and nails which are just some of the added benefits of drinking it, so, have you had your water today?
