waterSeventy-five percent of people are chronically dehydrated.  Most of the United States is experiencing one the hottest summers ever, which makes it even more important to drink lots of water.

Many of us mistake being thirsty with being hungry. We think we are hungry, so we grab for food rather than water. Majority of the time our bodies are telling us we need more water. Additionally you may find by drinking more water, you will lose weight as you won’t be eating as much.

Additionally, dehydration can lead to extremely dry skin as well as acne. Water also helps to detoxify your body. If you are already feeling thirsty then you are already dehydrated. It is important to drink up throughout the day to prevent your body from feeling thirsty.

Dehydration affects the body in many ways:

  • 1 percent deficiency makes us thirsty
  • 2 percent deficiency triggers fuzzy short term memory
  • 5 percent deficiency causes a slight fever
  • 8 percent deficiency causes the glnds to stop producing saliva and the skin to turn blue
  • 10 percent deficiency causes the inability to walk
  • 12 percent deficiency is fatal

How much water do you need?
It really depends on your height, your weight, your genetic makeup and your activity levels. Most people need a minimum of 64-80 ounces of water daily if the activity level and time outside is not excessive. If you tend to be outside a lot and are more active, then plan on consuming more.

Ways to get more water:

  • Carry a reusable water bottle with you every where you go (stick with stainless steal or glass to reduce the toxins that are released into your water).
  • Add lemon or cucumber to your water to give it flavor.
  • Drink water rather than other beverages with meals.
  • Eat high water fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe and honey dew.

Consuming beverages with lots of sugar, artificial sweeteners, sodium and caffeine can also dehydrate you even more. Although you may feel like you are drinking a lot of liquid, you are not reaping the hydrating benefits of water.

Quick tip: Drink 16 ounces of water 15-20 minutes before a meal to help you feel full faster.