Our bodies are about 60 percent of water! When you think about that it makes sense that drinking water is SO important. Drinking enough H2O maintains the body’s fluid balance and so much more. Which is why we thought it would good to share with you all the great benefits of water but also just how important it is to be drinking enough…both for you and your kiddos.
There’s really no magic number when it comes to how much water you should drink per day. Most health specialists commonly recommend eight 8-ounce glasses, which equals about 2 liters, or half a gallon, but this is just a rough guideline. So, why should we be drinking so much water and what are the actual benefits? Here are some of our FAVORITE reasons to drink more water:
1. Increases Energy & Decreases Fatigue –I don’t know about you, but being a parent is tiring. I will do almost ANYTHING to get my energy levels UP. Since your brain is mostly water, drinking it helps you think, focus and be more alert. As an added bonus, your energy levels are also boosted!…Move over caffeine—water can help fight those tired eyes too . One of the most common symptoms of dehydration is tiredness. So drink up and keep that brain healthy!
2. Promotes Weight Loss –I know first-hand how much water can help with weight loss! I gave up soda (my form of caffeine) at the beginning of the year and starting drinking water…lots and lots of water. I also changed a few of my eating habits and exercise more regularly (nothing too dramatic) but I’ve lost over 20 pounds.
Numerous studies have found a connection between water consumption and losing a few pounds . WHY? It helps remove by-products of fat, helps you feel full and reduces hunger, raises your metabolism and has zero calories!
3. Improves Skin Complexion – Gets rid of wrinkles…if it were only that simple! Well, it’s partly true. 😉 Water moisturizes your skin, keeps it fresh, soft, glowing and smooth, so technically it’s the best anti-aging treatment around! Certain toxins in the body can cause the skin to inflame, which results in clogged pores and acne . Water flush out those toxins and can reduce the risk of pimples. I had always heard this but never really thought it would make that big of a difference…until I read this article in Good House Keeping.
4. Maintains Regularity – Something we don’t like to talk about is our body’s waste, but it’s really important to our health. I never knew I would talk about poop so much…that’s what happens when you have kids!! From the time our kids are born we worry if they are going enough, but are we as concerned about ourselves? Luckily, drinking enough water adds fluids to the colon which helps make things move smoothly. Water is essential to digest our food and prevents constipation.
5. Boosts Immune System – Drinking plenty of water helps us fight off sickness.Water may help dehydration, helping the body bounce back when feeling under the weather.
6. Prevents Cramps & Sprains -A little water can go a long way. Painful joints, muscle cramps and strains can all occur if the body is dehydrated. Proper hydration helps keep joints lubricated and muscles more elastic so joint pain is less likely.
Water also helps energize the muscles. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink, instead you should be drinking water well before any exercising takes place.
7. Save Money! – Water is not free but it’s cheaper than anything else you can drink! Challenge yourself to drink more water and you might even notice a difference in your grocery bill. Better yet, give your kids the challenge… 😉
So the big question is…do you drink enough water?
