Water Rx: How Much Water Should I Drink?

Water Rx: How Much Water Should I Drink?
By Laura M. Turner, M.Sc., CFT, CNHP

Although it’s the simple molecule, created from two atoms of hydrogen, one oxygen, water packs a major punch. Yes, water, in itself, makes up over 60% of our body! And it doesn’t end there. Water is also the main component in many bodily fluids such as urine, tears, sweat, blood, lymph and digestive juices. It also involves itself in many of the main systems of the body including circulation, digestion and elimination. But are you getting enough water? And even if you are, is what you’re drinking safe?

But, how much water should I drink?  You may be asking. Here’s three things you must know to make the most out of water.

How Your Body Loses Water:
Depending on your activity level, your body loses at least 2 quarts of water each and every day. Water is lost through bodily functions, through the skin, lungs and elimination.

The good news is, many of the foods you eat such as fruits and vegetables will increase your resources of water. However, if you are a fan of beverages of the caffeinated and alcoholic variety, the reverse is true; these are thieves robbing your body of precious fluid. That said, the water you consume through your diet probably just isn’t enough.

Water, Water, Everywhere! Is It Safe To Drink?
Before we discuss the notion of how much, it’s first important to identify where your water is coming from. As you’ve probably read, the water that comes from your tap is not entirely safe. It contains chlorine and other harmful additives which can react together to produce carcinogens. Water pipes can also contribute to this toxicity by adding harmful additives like copper, lead, radon and nitrates.

Here's more information you may or may not already know about some of your commercial water choices:

• Well water – Taken from an aquifier it may also contain contaminants, many of which can be harmful to consume.
   

• Spring water and mineral water - Both spring and mineral water contain higher than normal sources of minerals as this water is taken from lakes, rivers and streams.
   

• Distilled water – It is first vaporized, then condensed depleting necessary minerals such as fluoride (which is beneficial to teeth).
   

• Pre-bottled water – Yes, incurring the expense seems like a reasonable solution, but is it safe? The answer is: The jury is still out. Agreed, it is a better option than water from the tap, however, there seems to be a reoccurring question as to whether the bottle can leak contaminants into the water itself. There also seems to be question as to what the true origin of the water is and how long it's been sitting in the bottle before purchase and consumption.
   

• Filtered water – Your safest option. Although research is still advancing, we now know filtration and purification is necessary to insure water safety. The solid carbon filtration system is the latest method of choice for clearing bacteria, chlorine and chemicals which pollute water. check out: www.bestfilters.com for more features and benefits.

Increase Your Water Consumption: How Much? How Often?
How, then, should you contribute to the watering system in your body? Among the resources I consulted for research (Including Staying Healthy With Nutrition, By Elson Haas, M.D. (highly recommended!) and The American College Of Sports Medicine (ACSM)) the consensus is: The average active person needs 3 quarts per day.

So, how does this translate to drinking? Again, while some of the body's water loss is replaced by the food you eat, a good rule of thumb is to consume eight, 8oz. glasses of water each day.

How To Use Water To Optimum Efficiency? Here Are My Recommendations:

• Water should be cold (preferably) as it is absorbed more readily by the system and may also be able to burn more calories.
   

• Drink one quart of water in the a.m. over a 30-minute period.
   

• Drink one quart over a 30-minute period at lunch.
   

• Drink one quart between 5:00 and 6:00 in the evening

Also aim to drink your morning glasses upon waking. Try to consume your water at least one hour before meals to help aid in digestion. (Water taken with or after meals can dilute digestive juices and can sometimes create digestive difficulty).

For more great information on the healing benefits of water and to answer further the question: how much water should I drink? Check out: Water: For Health, For Healing, For Life: You're Not Sick, You're Thirsty! by F. Batmanghelidj available through www.amazon.com.