Water, the single most important resource for sustaining life, is
sometimes referred to as the forgotten supplement or nutrient. We can
survive for weeks without food, but only days without water. Here are
some facts to consider. Water covers approximately 71% of the Earth,
the human body is 61.8% water by weight, blood is composed of 85%
water, and the brain is composed of 75% water. Are you thirsty yet?
Weight Loss and Water
Water plays a very important role in diet and weight loss, not to
mention overall good health. During the first few days of dieting, you
will notice a quick loss in weight that is due largely to a loss in
water. So, it's important to drink enough water to avoid dehydration.
But don't worry that drinking too much water will give you a "bloated"
look. There are many factors that cause water retention, but drinking
water is not one of them - unless combined with excessive sodium.
Exercise and Water
To burn calories, the human body requires an adequate supply of
water. If that's not enough motivation to make you drink more water,
consider that dehydration slows the fat burning process. Also, the
process of burning calories creates toxins that water helps to flush
out of our bodies. A study complied by a Washington University suggests
that one glass of water eliminated hunger pangs in nearly 100% of
dieters. Remember that fact when you get hungry tonight. One of the
biggest causes in weight gain can be attributed to late-night snacking.
Are You Dehydrated?
Approximately 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. As
mentioned above, blood is 85% water. Not surprisingly then dehydration
causes a reduction in blood volume that in turn reduces the oxygen
supply to your muscles. A reduction in oxygen supply can make you feel
tired. Is it any wonder that so many of us are groggy right now?
Before you grab that cup of mid-afternoon coffee, ask yourself if
you've had enough water today. Studies indicate that the number one
cause of daytime fatigue is a lack of water! Also, that cup of coffee
that seems so necessary may have an adverse effect on you. Coffee is a
diuretic and contributes to dehydration. So, whenever you drink coffee
(and tea, soda, or alcohol for that matter) be sure and consume more
water to compensate.
Flush Trouble Away
In terms of overall health and well-being, we should not overlook
the importance of water. Proper hydration keeps muscles and joints
lubricated, and has been shown to reduce back and joint pain in 80% of
people who suffer from these conditions. We've all heard those
recommendations about drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
But consider that studies show that only 5 glasses a day can decrease
the risk of colon cancer by 45%, the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and
the risk of bladder cancer by 50%.
As Henry David Thoreau once said, "Water is the only drink for a
wise man". And that goes for women, too. By the time that you feel
thirsty, you are already dehydrated. So why wait that long?
I'll see you at the water cooler.
Editor's Note: The author is a Natural Drug Free WNBF Pro
Bodybuilder, 2x Amateur State Champion, Amateur National Champion, and
Amateur World Champion.
Resources:
http://www.caloriesperhour.com/tutorial_water.php
http://www.diagnose-me.com/cond/C5223.html
http://thinkexist.com/quotations/water/
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