According to a 2016 study, less than half of the U.S. population consumes an adequate amount of plain water per day (Rosinger). While there is water present in other drinks, such as soda or coffee, drinking plain water is the best way to reap the benefits of proper hydration. It's everyone's New Years Resolution, the automatic cure-all answer from the school nurse, the "Easiest Ways to Get Healthier" fitness blog post; drinking enough water seems like it should be easy, since everyone is doing it, right? Wrong. So what are some of these benefits?
1. Water is a HUGE percentage of your body!
From the chemical makeup of your blood to the marrow in your bones, water is a critical part of your body. Experts estimate anywhere from 55% to 70% of your body is made up of water (Rosinger). Water acts as a building material for your cells to turn your food into energy and break down essential nutrients. Water also helps lubricate the cartilage that cushions your joints.
2. Water helps your body flush out toxins
If you've ever struggled with chronic acne, you may have had a dermatologist tell you to drink more water, and this is because water helps your body flush out toxins and other harmful materials. Through perspiration... and other more unsavory functions, water acts as a transport for these chemicals and compounds to leave your body, helping you stay healthy.
3. Drinking water saves money
Choosing to drink water keeps you from spending extra cash on soft drinks or coffee, and everyone could use some help saving a dollar or two. Along with being cheaper, water doesn't contain any of the extra sugars or caffeine found in other beverages.
Now that you know some of the great benefits of drinking water, how can you make drinking more of it a natural part of your day? It may be hard to quit your morning cup of coffee cold turkey, but consider drinking two glasses of water for every non-water beverage you enjoy. Here are a few other ways to make drinking more water a priority:
1. Track your daily intake!
Just like many people track their daily calories or steps, there are a ton of fun, free apps out there to help you keep track of how much water you are consuming. Some apps, like Plant Nanny (available in the Apple and Google Stores), create cute creatures or fun games to help you enjoy your new habit. Others, such as My Water, are simple and no-nonsense, allowing you to set a hydration goal and work to meet it.
2. Challenge your friends
Some apps include the option to challenge your friends to stay hydrated as well, and this can build motivation for you and your group. Make sure everyone is being truthful and safe with their consumption though (no chugging….)
3. Flavor your water
My favorite flavor combos are cucumber mint, lemon-lime, and strawberry basil! I make a large pitcher the night before with a different flavor, and try to finish that pitcher by the end of the day! Experiment with combinations, and keep finding fun ways to say healthy!
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