WATER... Why it's So Important

Our bodies are made up of 60% water.

WHAT?! More than half our bodies are water!

Our brains and heart are 73% water, while our lungs are a whopping 83% and our muscles rank at 70% water..

As we go through our days we are capable of excreting 3 liters of water per day and one third of that is urine. Other things that cause us to lose water: sweating, salivating, mucus, tears, and absorption - all normal body functions.

So, how much water do we need to take in on a daily basis? It depends, really. I know everything has to be so complicated. The reason it depends is because we are all different and our lifestyles are all different. The basic rule of thumb has always been 8 cups of water per day. This equals 64 ounces. This is an adequate amount of water for someone who weighs 128 pounds.

In order to get the adequate amount of water YOUR body needs daily is to use the average calculation of one half of your body weight in ounces per day. So, if you weigh 150 lbs. your should try to drink 75 ounces of water per day. Yup - that means if you weigh 250nlbs, you should be ingesting 125 ounces per day.

I know this sounds like a lot to remember. Not only the information, but remembering to actually DRINK THE WATER! There are times I too struggle with getting enough water in. Here are some way you can help yourself to remember:

1) First thing in the morning drink your first glass of water. (Then get your coffee)

2) If you work out first thing in the morning; have your first glass 10 minutes prior to your work out, keep a bottle with you during your workout and drink another glass after your workout

3) During the day, set a timer on your phone for every half-hour.

How to stay motivated:

1) Get a water buddy to join you in the mission

2) Tell those you live with to ask you if you have had enough water today

3) Download a water app (Daily Water Tracker is one of my favorites)

4) If you are one of (us) that has trouble with the"taste" of water try adding flavored sugar free, electrolyte and vitamin infused water enhancer. (i.e. Mio Sport; Propel Fitness)

No matter where you are in you r water journey, the important thing is that you continue to drink more water on a daily basis. Your body will love you for it.