I'll Drink to That!

Drink to Good Health!

Benefits of water and tips to help you drink more daily.

We all know we need to drink more water but sometimes the reasons are not so clear in our minds. Here are some powerful reasons to drink water.

1. Weight loss! - Water is one of the best ways to lose weight Drinking the recommended 64oz daily often means you will be replacing higher calorie fluids. Water is also a appetite suppressant. Lots of times when we think we are hungry we are really thirsty. Try drinking a glass of water when you know you've eaten recently and still feel hungry. Its worked for me several times.

2. Increased energy - They say if you are thirsty then you are already dehydrated. To read more about dehydration click here. Dehydration makes you feel drained and can lead to muscle weakness, dizziness, and other symptoms.

3. Cleansing - Drinking water helps flush out toxins in your body. Getting rid of toxins helps our bodies work more efficiently.

4. Healthy Skin - Drinking a healthy amount of water can help clear skin. I can tell a difference in the way my skin acts when I am drinking 64oz or more of water a day vs when I'm not.

5. Better Exercise - Being dehydrated can make you feel bad when working out. You may feel tired or weak and therefore are more prone to cut the workout short or not go at all. You tend to lose even more fluid through sweat when working out so hydration is important. Make sure you drink water before, during, and after each workout.

Ways to Help Form the Habit of Drinking Water

• Carry a bottle of water with you - Always have water with you. Seeing it will remind you to DRINK it! It may help to buy a big water bottle to leave at work, fill it up and know that you have to finish it by the end of the day.
• Set Reminders to get you into the habit - Set reminders on your phone, watch or computer to drink water every 30 - 60 minutes.  
•  Substitute - Substitute another beverage that you normally have that's not water for water.
• Filter - Invest in a filter for your home. Sometimes buying cases of bottled water can get expensive. With filters you can use water from your tap!
• Track it - Often times tracking a new habit can help you stay consistent. Tracking helps you see your progress throughout the week. Seeing your progress helps you to be proud of what you have accomplished.

If you have additional ways that help you get in more water throughout the day please feel free to share!