Day 39: Water, Water Everywhere

Have you ever thought about the functions of water? Water, as a component, can be used for many things like cleansing your body, washing dirty dishes, cooking/baking cakes and casseroles, swimming and the list goes on. Though we practically utilize the clear liquid in our every day routines, we often forget about one of the most important uses of water, for drinking purposes. From quenching a mouth-watering thirst to sipping a glass along with a spicy meal, water is one of the best choices when it comes to drinking, mainly because water is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

According to the Mayo Clinic website (www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283):

"Water is your body's principal chemical component and makes up about 60 percent of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired."

As you can see, water is pretty important to our overall well-being. But how much should we drink each day?

"The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day. The AI for women is 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) of total beverages a day."

Still not convinced enough to switch from soda to water? Maybe this will change your mind. Water is one beneficial factor in weight loss. Let's face it, whether you're doing Weight Watchers, Atkins Diet, South Beach Diet or one of the other many diet plans that exist, water is a vital recommendation of all successful dieting. Why do you ask? Here's why, courtesy of Livestrong.com (http://www.livestrong.com/article/414520-what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-water-for-weight-loss/):

1. Calories don't exist in water.
2. Water gives a sense of fullness.
3. It provides the necessary hydration your body needs to function.
4. Water increases and benefits your metabolism.
5. It is suggested that water can also help burn excess belly fat.

See why water is so important to us weight loss junkies? We need water not only to stayed hydrated, but to also cleanse out toxins and lose weight. I know several people, my sister included, who can't stand to drink water. To them, water has no taste or flavor, making it pretty boring  and almost impossible to drink. But, as SELF Magazine suggests via Twitter, "lemon (or lime) & water are a perfect match. The slightly sour flavor will keep you sipping & you'll get antioxidants in your glass to boot." Talk about adding a little citrus flavor!

So the next time you open your fridge and start to grab a diet soda or glass of milk, choose an ice cold glass of water with ice cubes and lemon instead. Your body (and belly) will thank you later.

XoXo,
DJH