Water 101

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Why is water so essential for your body?
You may have heard that your body is made up of 70% water, so it makes sense that we need a lot of it. Water is essential for every part of your body, from cells to daily bodily functions. It flushes toxins from your body, keeps your joints, organs, and skin hydrated, prevents fatigue, and accelerates weight loss.

How does water affect weight loss?
Studies have shown that water consumption increases the rate at which people burn calories, especially drinking ice cold water, because your body uses energy (i.e. burns calories) to heat the water to a usable temperature. In a study from Berlin’s Franz ‐ Volhard Clinical Research center, metabolic rates increased by 30% for both men and women within 10 ‐ 40 minutes of drinking about two glasses of water. That means you burn more calories and lose more pounds from drinking water alone!

In addition, if your body is not getting enough water to stay hydrated, it makes up for it by storing the water it does have for later, in your legs, ankles, lungs, and abdomen. This is one reason for bloating or “water weight” accumulation. So the way to reduce water retention, is actually to drink more water. When you drink enough, your body no longer needs that back ‐ up supply. And it actually helps control your appetite since drinking water adds a feeling of fullness.

Are you giving your body enough water?
Without the proper amount of water, your body becomes dehydrated. Your brain is made up of 75% water so when it is dehydrated, you may experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Staying hydrated is a key to having a good energy level. Even a 5% drop in body fluids will cause a 25 ‐ 30% loss of energy in most people. Adults should have a minimum of half their body’s pounds in ounces per day (ex: a 200lb person should have 100oz ‐ about 12 cups ‐ of water daily).

How can I increase my water consumption?
Rehydrate every morning before eating. Have a glass with each meal instead of soft drinks or other beverages. Thirst is a signal that you are already dehydrated, so an easy rule of thumb for getting enough is to drink before you feel thirsty. Some people find that keeping a large container of water handy is not only a convenient reminder, but also a good way to measure how much you’re drinking.