by Ruth Griffiths
During the recent hot weather we have been admonished to “drink plenty of water.” That is advice we would be wise to heed during the hot months, but also throughout the year.
In Canada, we are blessed with some of the best drinking water in the world. For most Canadians, water is readily accessible and almost free. It’s the cheapest medicine on tap anywhere.
Maybe we would better appreciate the benefits of drinking water if we had to pay more for it. Imagine if you had to get a prescription for something that would improve your skin, flush toxins from your body and reduce hunger. Imagine if water was marketed as a weight-loss enhancer. What would you be willing to pay for it?
Our body is made up mostly of water, so it’s not surprising that staying hydrated is important for good health. Most wellness programs advise you to exercise, eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. So why haven’t I made regular hydration a part of my daily life?
Some friends gave me this advise about how to drink enough water each day:
- Make it a habit. Most people said they tie drinking water to their daily routine, for example two glasses first thing in the morning and two glasses with each meal. Some drink extra water when they take their pills. Some sip water while they watch TV. Some keep a bottle of water on their desk.
- Make it accessible. Some people keep a two-litre pitcher of water in the refrigerator. When the pitcher is empty, they know they have achieved their water goal for the day. One leaves a glass on the kitchen cupboard —a reminder to fill it and have a refreshing drink.
- Pump up the volume. Some people “supersize it” by using a 16-ounce glass for drinking water.
- Drink water when you feel hungry. A vague sense of hunger may actually be thirst. The body’s need for liquids may incorrectly be translated as a desire for food.
Your fluid intake during the day can include soups, juices and teas. But water is an inexpensive healthy choice. Best of all, it has zero calories!
