The Importance Of Water

Water is the most important substance that our bodies need, after air. Without air, we will die in a few minutes. Without water, we die in a few days. But we can live without food for weeks, as long as we have plenty of air and water.

Never try to restrict the amount of water that you drink. It contains no calories and it does not lead to ‘water retention’. Bloating and water retention can be caused by having too little water, but never by having too much. It can also be caused by vitamin and mineral imbalances, or by hormones, especially for women.

So if you suffer from bloating, make sure that you are getting enough water. Covering your vitamin and mineral requirements is important too.

So how much water is enough? Well, a slim adult of average height can use around 3.5 liters (118 oz) a day, of which they will usually get around 1.5 liters (50 oz) from food. This leaves 2 liters (68 oz) that we need to drink. So 8 x 8 oz glasses comes close.

People who are overweight can use more. Some people say 0.5 oz water for every 1 lb body weight. This means 100 oz for somebody weighing 200 lb, and 150 oz for 300 lb.

Of course, we can survive with less than this. The body is remarkable in its ability to adapt to circumstances that are less than ideal. However, over the years it will slowly begin to suffer. Common diseases like viral and bacterial infections will be more severe and last longer; more serious diseases may begin to take hold. Some studies have linked Alzheimer’s disease to a lack of adequate water intake.

If you have trouble believing this, try drinking the full 3.5 liters (118 oz) of water per day next time that you are sick with flu or a cold. You probably won’t be eating much so you will need the full amount. You will almost certainly find that you have less nasal congestion and you recover more quickly.

It is best to spread your water intake through the day, drinking more in the morning and slowly decreasing through the afternoon and evening. For example, a couple of glasses on waking, then one glass per hour in the morning and one every two hours in the afternoon and evening. Be sure to have a glass around 15 minutes before you eat. This will help you feel full and satisfied with your meal.

You are not likely to drink too much water but it is possible to drink it too fast. If you tried to drink 3.5 liters all at one time, it could flood the brain and even cause death. The body can process 1 liter of water per hour, and in order to avoid stressing the kidneys, it’s best not to exceed that. That means a maximum of 4 x 8 oz glasses per hour.

Water even helps keep us regular, when combined with enough dietary fiber. Eat plenty of vegetables to maximize your fiber intake.

Taking good quality vitamins and minerals is also important for maintaining a healthy body and losing weight.