Thou shall love h20

Whenever I have a consultation with someone about improving their nutrition and overall health, I always ask about water intake. Getting an insight into water intake can actually provide a general snapshot into someone's health. Did you know that your body is estimated to be up to 60 percent water, the brain is composed of 70 percent water, and the lungs are nearly 90 percent water? Lean muscle tissue contains about 75 percent water by weight, as does the brain, body fat contains 10 percent water, and bone has 22 percent water. About 83 percent of our blood is water, which helps digest our food, transport waste, and control body temperature. Lastly, at least 20 percent of the water that your body needs come from the food you consume and the rest the rest will come from beverages you drink.

All this to say, water is a pretty big deal, and most people don't even realize it. Ideally you should drink half of your body weight in oz of water a day. For example, if you're 140lbs, you should drink 70oz. If you are active, get in 8-16oz additional for every 300 calories. Why is water important?Well it actually benefits your joints by providing lubrication allowing for better movement. Its imperative for digestion. Water helps cleanse and filter unecessary toxins to be flushed out the system.  In additiin water helps deluver nutrients in your cells to all the necessary organ systems.

Many times I've had people tell me they workout and eat well, but then I find out they're not drinking enough water. Dehydration actually encourages your body to store fat, and if you have that extra full belly, its probably toxin build up that just needs to be washed down with lots of water and green veggies. Water is so important in weight management because not only is it working through your digestive tract, but also aiding in regulating metabolism, hunger and your kidneys. It is said that 75% of time we think we're hungry, we're actually thirsty. After really learning how simply important water was for weight management and digestion, I did a "Gallon Challenge", drank a gallin of water for 7 days straight and loss 5 lbs! And during that point, I was already eating very clean.

A gallon seems like a lot for some people but its all in your head. Once you stay consistent, it will seem easier. Make progress and time marks on a gallon bottle so you can pace yourself if you decide to take it on. It will be interesting to see your body change within the matter of a week. Lots of water can be challenging depending on the strength of your bladder, so be prepared, and really just do the best you can.

Going forth, if you have any friends or family with digestion, kidney, weight,  headache, or cardiovascular challenges, encourage them to up their water. Support them by taking advantage of preparing water bottles, canisters, etc. ahead of time. To be earth friendly, by home filter system and a large cute water bottle so you don’t have to constantly use plastic bottles from the store.

BE Well~


Written by: Tiffany Wright

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