Wednesday, April 23, 2014

The Importance of Water

Everyone has always been told to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.  I find that in order for people to follow dietary advice it is important for them to know WHY.

Facts about water: 

  • Water is the most important nutrient in the body.  You can only go days without water, whereas you can go about 8 weeks without food.  
  • Water makes up 55-60% of our total body mass, it is found in all tissues, cells and body fluids.  
  • Our body can produce 8% of daily water needs, but 92% has to be ingested through food and drinks we consume.  
  • Processed foods take moisture out of food and we ended up losing water when consuming them. 
  • The slower you drink water, the more you'll retain it.  Don't chug water- you kidneys are overly efficient and will excrete most of it instead of absorbing it.  
  • If you drink over a gallon of water without any electrolytes you will become dehydrated.  
  • Water cannot be stored, that is why it is very important to have a daily consumption of water.  
How much water should I drink? 
  • Body Weight (pounds)/2 = the minimum number of ounces you should drink each day. 
Roles of Water in the body:
  • Improves Oxygen delivery to cells
  • Transports Nutrients
  • Enables cellular hydration
  • Moistens oxygen for easier breathing
  • Cushions bones and joins
  • Absorbs shocks to joins and organs
  • Regulates body temperature
  • Removes wastes
  • Flushes toxins
  • Prevents tissues from sticking
  • Lubricates joints
  • Improves cell-to-cell communications
  • Maintains normal electrical properties of cells
  • Empowers the body's natural healing process

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