Water & Exercise

Drinking enough water while exercising is always important, but in the summer even more so. With the additional heat, many people don't realize how much more water they are actually losing, even during less strenuous exercise.

Image via WikipediaThe human body is made up of over 75% of water, and as we all know, we cannot live without water.  The fact is, we can only survive for a total of 3 days without water - much much less time than we can survive without food.  Water has however, been replaced to a large degree in the American diet by soft drinks and other sugar-sweetened refreshments.  Keep in mind that plain water is a healthier choice overall, and a necessary one for leading yourself towards better health and longevity.

Your own personal need for water can vary greatly due to exercise, weight, and temperature.  Research has proven that over 2/3 of adults don't get the water they need on a daily basis.  By drinking water on a regular basis you can replenish your body and keep it well hydrated and functioning as it should be.

A majority of us wait until we are thirsty before we drink water.  Keep in mind, this way isn't a reliable gauge of the water needs for the body.  By the time you are thirsty you may have already lost two of more cups of the body's water supply.  Therefore, getting into the habit of drinking water regularly is much better than simply waiting until you are thirsty. (I keep a bottle or glass of water on my desk at all times throughout the day while working. This reminds me to drink regularly.)

It is very important that you don't substitute beverages with alcohol and caffeine for water.  The reason behind this is that those types of beverages act as a diuretic and can cause you to lose more water through increased urination.  You may think and feel as if you are getting more water through these beverages, but the fact is that you are letting it go almost as fast as you consume it.

Image via WikipediaAnytime you exercise, you need more water. Due to perspiration, your body will lose quite a bit of water.  For each pound lost due to exercise, you need to drink 2 cups of water.  Even when you lay down to sleep, your body loses water.  By drinking a glass or more of water before you go to sleep, you can wake up with your body functioning as it should be.

It should also be obvious that when you are sick you'll need more water than any other time.  When  you get a cold or the flu, your body can become dehydrated quite quickly.  (This is why your doctor will always say to "rest and drink plenty of fluids.") You can help to prevent this by reminding yourself to drink more water when you are sick.

Always make it a habit to drink water on a daily basis.  You should keep a bottle of water with you at all times and drink it throughout the day - and remember to drink extra when exercising. You should also teach yourself to drink water instead of other beverages that don't replenish the nutrients your body needs. If you have been drinking sugary beverages for a while, it may take a bit of time to get used to substituting plain water, but once you do, your body will thank you.