No.039

Wholesome DRINKING WATER

The human body is two-thirds water. Water is an essential nutrient that is involved in every function of the body. Water deprivation kills faster than a lack of any other nutrient. You should be drinking 6-8 glasses (+ 2litres) of good quality wholesome drinking water daily.

Water must be continuously replaced because an average of 250ml (half a pint) is lost daily, just through breathing. By the time thirst is experienced, your body is already reacting to the signs of dehydration. Avoid this by drinking water regularly throughout the day. It is better to drink moderate amounts throughout the day rather than drinking a day's supply in one go!

Common symptoms of dehydration include; headaches, poor concentration, tiredness, increased risk of developing kidney infections, constipation. If they can, professional sportsmen and women drink water regularly when competing. They know that even slight dehydration reduces clarity of thought and performance.

Drinking enough water enables your body to burn fat and calories more effectively. It also rids the body of toxins and waste, improves your metabolism and increases energy levels. Keep a jug of water beside your bed when you go to sleep, so that you actually have a glass if you wake up feeling thirsty, rather than just dreaming about it!

Remember coffee, juice and fizzy drinks do not count as a substitute for water. In fact they contribute to the build up of toxins and add to dehydation! Dehydration occurs because coffee, tea and alcoholic drinks are diuretics (they make you go to the toilet, more often than you would usually), which affects the ability of the body to retain.