Hosing down the water issue

Health Tip: Hosing Down the Water Issue

It has been drummed into our heads for at least 3 decades that we should all be drinking 8 glasses of water every day. That’s eight 8-ounce glasses or 8 cup of water. But do we?

Maybe.

Even if we really want to, most of us think we fall short. So, this health tip will relieve some of the guilt you may feel for not measuring up to who ever told us this in the first place. (Anyway, as Americans, we really do much better than we’ve been told.)

Tip one: You can count any liquid you drink for the 8-glass total. While water needs to be your main source of hydration; tea, coffee, soda, even beer and wine can contribute to the 8-glass total. Everything in moderation, please.

Tip two: Most Americans get the equivalent of four 8-ounce glasses of water in the solid food we eat. Though doctors don't recommend it, many of us could cover our bare-minimum daily water needs without drinking anything during the day. Especially good sources of water, of course, are fresh fruits and vegetables. So splurge here.

Tip three: Everyone’s need for water may vary, depending on a number of factors, including amount of exercise, exposure to heat or sun, illnesses, or if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind when additional daily water intake may be needed:

= = => Exercise: moderate add 1-2 cups of water, intense 2-3 cups

= = => Environment: hot and humid weather will produce more perspiration, so remember to drink fluids often. Also, indoor heat often dries out our skin. Get a drink at every break, and especially if you feel thirsty. Don’t wait. Get something to drink.

= = => Pregnancy: a woman’s body is doing double duty here – increase to 10 cups

= = => Nursing: a large amount of water is being used to produce mother’s milk. For your daytime feedings, get into the habit of taking a drink, too. Have several large cups with lids and straws filled ahead of time with ice-cold water or your favorite beverage. While your baby enjoys her refreshment, enjoy some of your own! Up your total daily fluid intake to 12.5 cups

= = => Common ailments: when suffering colds, flu, diarrhea or vomiting, be sure to drink more fluids, so your body can continue to heal itself. Drink whatever will stay down and sounds appetizing: hot teas, herbal teas, clear sodas, etc. Listen to your body. It will tell you what it needs.

= = => Serious health conditions: some conditions impede the body’s ability to excrete water, like some heart and liver conditions. Be sure to ask your doctor about liquid retention issues.

Don’t you feel better now? Even you water haters who are reading this email can find a way to stand up with confidence next to the other guy who has a bottle of spring water attached to his hand, and stuck in his backpack, and connected to his bicycle, and, well, you get the picture.

Considering these health tips, you are doing quite well when it comes to water (pun intended ;>) and that is good information to know.

Until next time, here’s to your health!

Dorothy Lam

OasisHealthTeam.com

dorothy@oasishealthteam.com

304-754-6348

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