Water is essential in our lives

Water is just as important as breathing.

Notwithstanding your ability to obtain the proper levels of oxygen, water is the most critical element required in order to avoid certain death. Even if we are otherwise healthy, failing to obtain the proper level of hydration can have a massive impact upon our overall wellness. Unfortunately, the majority of individuals simply choose to ignore this basic fact. Very few actually consume more than is required. They instead drink too little (unlike when referring to common alcoholic beverages). Humans are the only species on the earth which does not recognise the importance of consuming water in relation to basic metabolic functions. Interestingly enough, the same can certainly not be said when referring to beer, wine and spirits. Considering the 60 percent of our body weight is represented by water, there is little room for error. 

The main reason behind the previous observations is that some individuals claim that they are not able to drink enough water. Interestingly, this seems to be a largely female phenomenon. My grandmother, mother and sister have been known to consume less than 0.5 litres per day. This will ultimately lead to joint issues, premature ageing and other significant health problems. While I love you women, let’s never forget that collagen and Botox are not solutions for ageing. Water represents your best friend in this regard. 

How Much Water Should We Drink?

When referring to athletes, it is recommended that five per cent of one’s body weight should represent water intake. This table below will help to clarify things a bit:

• An individual weighing 100 kilograms (220 pounds) will require five litres of water.
• An individual weighing 60 kilograms (132 pounds) will require three litres of water.
• An individual weighing 80 kilograms (175 pounds) will require four litres of water.
• An individual weighing 50 kilograms (110 pounds) will require 2.5 litres of water.

Keep in mind that these requirements are the same regardless of your gender. These very same recommendations have also been followed by those who do not consider themselves to be athletes. 

How Can You Drink so Much Water if You are Not Thirsty?

The answer is one word: constantly. The trick is to sip throughout the day. Forget about trying to down two litres within 30 minutes. Smaller portions will allow your body to absorb more of this vital element. 

Another point to mention is that we should continue drinking even if we are not thirsty. Thirst is one of the first signs of dehydration. In other words, we should have already consumed water if we have arrived at this state. While we are not necessarily close to death, our bodies are trying to warn us of such an imbalance and this condition will not improve on its own. 

Another excellent tip is to forget about the common drinking glass. While one of the hallmarks of modern culture and civilisation, glasses are not the best method if you hope to increase your water intake. Not only is it difficult to measure how much water such a vessel contains, but we are forced to drink less at any given time. Constantly refilling a drinking glass can be an annoying task and many of us will simply turn our attention to something else such as a nearby distraction. It is much better to utilise a water bottle. Also, let’s remember that this very same bottle can be reused in the future at no additional cost. It is likewise a great idea to purchase a BPA-free bottle, as you will not have to worry about the presence of harmful dissolved toxins that can accumulate over time. Not only will you be helping the environment by reducing waste, but your body is receiving the proper amount of water on a regular basis. 

At this point, the maths are quite easy. Imagine for a moment that you have two bottles of water and each of these can hold two litres. In order to consume three litres, completely fill one and fill the other to the halfway point. You can take these bottles along while out and about or even running errands, so a healthy sip of water is always close by. This will help to reinforce the habit over time and you will avoid annoying sensations such as a chronically dry mouth. 

Anyone who claims that they cannot grow accustomed to regularly drinking water should look at their other lifestyle habits. If they smoke cigarettes and drink coffee on a regular basis, why should this new technique be so difficult to adopt?

Of course, you will need to urinate more frequently. After urinating, be sure to immediately drink more water. This is very healthy for the kidneys and it helps to cleanse the entire body of everyday toxins that would otherwise be allowed to build up. 

Urinating at Night (Nocturia)

During the first few days, you may need to urinate two or three times overnight. This is perfectly normal and your body will adapt so that such instances soon become infrequent. After I began drinking between four and five litres per day, I required no more than three days before I felt compelled to urinate only once every night. Please note that contrary to popular belief, the majority of individuals who frequently urinate do not have kidney disease or diabetes. On the contrary, constantly urinating is one of the healthiest activities for your internal organs. 

What Should You Drink?

Once again, the simple answer here is water. Mineral water is fine if you do not mind spending slightly more money although tap water is just as appropriate. It can be argued that the best way to achieve the proper water intake is to use a modern filtration system attached to your kitchen tap. It should likewise go without saying that sugary soft drinks, fruit juices or other liquids laden with sugar should be avoided at all costs. 

So, try to avoid popular brand names such as Coca-Cola. While there is nothing wrong with allowing yourself a treat on occasion, keep it to a minimum. If you enjoy fruit juice, make certain that it comes from natural sources (such as a smoothie blender at home). Still, be sure that these substances do not represent the majority of your liquid intake. We should finally note that water used to make tea or herbal drinks can be added to your daily “hydration count”. This is solely based on individual preferences. 

Logic and Common Sense

There is no reason why the subject of obtaining enough water has to represent a mystical undertaking. Just be sure to determine the quantity that you require and to have a source readily available. If you happen to forget your bottle at home, head over to the local grocery store and purchase one. Much like other healthy habits, your ability to embrace the recommendations mentioned above represents nothing more than a simple decision. 

“The only person who can help you to lead a healthier lifestyle is YOU!”

VJ