Coach Peggi Ingram
As the weather warms and we venture to outdoor fun, it is important we pay close attention to our water intake. With increased activities, temperatures and sun exposure, dehydration can happen quickly. Our bodies are comprised of two thirds water and every bodily operation depends on it. Water:
- Lubricates and protects joints, bowels and organs
- Regulates the body temperature
- Transports nutrients and oxygen into cells
- Regulates metabolism
- Detoxifies
- Prevents disease
When intake is reduced or the demand is increased, the body instinctively rations water to organs. The brain, the more important organ, gets the majority of water where as the skin the least. Chronically dry skin and/or dandruff are signs of advanced bodily dehydration, as are asthma and hyperventilation.
While 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, more than a third of Americans have such a weak thirst mechanism; it is often mistaken for hunger. Did you know a mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fatigue, fuzzy short-term memory, and headaches, including migraines?
To prevent these early symptoms of dehydration, it is imperative to consumer at least 1 gallon of water per day and up to 1 ½ gallon with increased activity or temperature. The easiest way to stay WELL-HYDRATED is to carry a refillable water bottle at all times and consume 12 oz of water every hour. For OPTIMUM HEALTH, make WATER consumption part of your DAILY ROUTINE. Keep it Fun!!
Coach Peggi Ingram, RN
Genesis Transformation's Blog 
judy josephs
June 4, 2012
what about adding lemon to your water? does it help hydration? how does it change the water? do you need more or less? I understand it might help with creating a more alkaline condition in the body, which is desirable & I find it more refreshing. comments?
Peggi Ingram
June 4, 2012
Judy,
Great question.
Adding lemons to the water has great benefits. Besides the detoxifying effects of lemon water on the liver, lemon water also has other medicinal values such as:
*prevention of pathogenic (able to cause disease) bacteria
*reduce symptoms of gout and rheumatism
*assist in digestion and elimination
*alkalizing effect on the body which reduces bacteria and virus growth
*nourishes brain and nerves with potassium
*relieves symptoms of asthma and allergies (anti inflammatory effects)
I also find that the addition of lemon to water is more palatable for ease of consumption when drinking 1-1.5 gals of water a day.
Peggi
Pat
June 8, 2012
Hi Peggi,
Water was always refreshing until I went through chemo. Now water is no longer refreshing, it doesn’t quench my thirst. I need to add something sweet. This makes it difficult to consume a gallon of water. My question is..by adding something sweet am I reducing the benefits?
pegingram
June 8, 2012
Pat, Chemo can definitely change the body’s responses to food and fluids by altering the taste mechanisms. Squeezing fresh lemons or adding cucumbers, fresh mint leaves or other herbs is a wonderful way to flavor the water. Also a few drops of Stevia liquid sweetener is ok to enhance the water’s taste to your palate without reducing the benefit. Sugar or other artificial sweeteners should be avoided. Keep Drinking and Have Fun!
Peggi