Our bodies need water for joint health, brain function, skin, temperature regulation, balancing fluid in the eye, kidney health, and many other reasons. We lose fluid when we breathe, process certain nutrients, sweat, and evacuate waste. Staying hydrated keeps us alert, regulates our hearts, and aids in evacuation. Many of us fall short of proper hydration because we often drink during meals and neglect to drink between meals.
Water is the most useful liquid our body needs, and if you weigh 200 lbs. or less, the best way to replenish your fluids is to drink half your body weight in ounces daily. I know that seems a lot, but if you are active and moving, that is how much your body needs daily. An example would be if you are 160 pounds your total fluid intake for the day would be 160 pounds divided by two equals 80 ounces. Suppose your weight is above 200 lbs., in that case, I highly advise you to seek nutritional support for proper calculation and overall analysis of your health to determine how much water is needed daily. The National Institute of Health simplifies this calculation by recommending women drink, on average, 9 cups a day and men 13 cups of water. Here is the link to read more about hydration:
How do you know you are hydrated without counting your water intake? A general rule is to take a closer look at your urine color and output. The urine color should be a slight yellowish tint; if it is dark orange, you know you are not drinking enough water. Foods, medications, and vitamins can change the color of your urine, so it is important to discuss this with your doctor or nutritionist if you are concerned. Till next time I hope you hydrate and carry a water bottle to remind you to do so.
In health your nutritionist:
Elina Ackley, MS., CNS. LDN
