Reasons to Drink Water

It seems like our modern society needs to be reminded of a few good reasons to drink water. With the summer season upon us (in the northern hemisphere ;-), there seems to be an endless supply of caffeinated, alcohol, and sugary drinks from family get-togethers, vacation outings, to the neighborhood barbeques. It’s hard to avoid. And while there’s nothing wrong with having a treat now and again, remember that there’s an alternate choice out there that comes right out of the faucet and is a lot more refreshing – Water! Good old-fashioned water may not be your first drink choice, but here are some reasons to consider when you’re looking for a glass of something cool to quench your thirst:

1. Water keeps our skin healthy and hydrated and deters age marks and wrinkles.
2. Water adds shock absorption to our joints
3. Water helps carry away waste from our blood stream and keeps the body functioning properly.
4. Water fills our stomachs, so we eat less.
5. Dehydration can lead to kidney stones and organ failure.
6. Water has no additives or preservatives.
7. Dehydration causes fatigue…drink water & feel energized!
8. Water helps carries nutrients though our blood to where they need to be.
9. Water has been associated with the reduced risk of certain diseases, like colon, bladder and breast cancers.
10. Another symptom of dehydration are headaches…have a glass of water!

Despite all the benefits that water provides, it’s estimated that more than 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Our bodies are 2/3 water. We need water. We can live months without food, but a few days without water and we’ll die. Thirst can often be mistaken for hunger, causing over-eating when all our body really wanted was a glass of water. This summer, sit back and enjoy a tall glass of H20…and if you’re feeling real exotic…squeeze in a lemon or a lime. Here’s to a great summer….Cheers!!

You can find Reasons to Drink Water and other motivational fitness information in the July 2007 article of The Bullhorn. You can sign up for this free monthly e-zine below.