The Importance Of Water

Water. You may love it, hate it, or play in it, but are you drinking enough of it? Unfortunately, most people are not. On average, 55 percent- 75 percent of a person’s body weight is water. Which means it is in constant demand in the body. The percentage of water in the body is highest in newborns and lessens with age. Keeping  hydrated is one of the most important factors in staying healthy. That brings us to the most commonly asked question, how much water should someone drink?

To estimate how much water you should be drinking, you should take your weight in pounds and divide it in half, and that is the amount of ounces you should drink in water per day. For example: A person who is 180lbs should drink 90 oz of water per day.

Contrary to what most people may think, drinking pop, juice and even certain teas does not help keep your body hydrated. Beverages that contain caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, which means it depletes your body of water. That is why it is important to drink a glass of water for every caffeinated and alcoholic beverage you consume, to counter act the affects of dehydration. If you do not drink enough water, dehydration can set in. By the time you feel thirsty you are already dehydrated.

Dehydration can happen in any situation, but happens more quickly if you are active or in a hot environment. The elderly and young children are more susceptible to becoming dehydrated.

Signs of dehydration are: fatigue, headaches, constipation, muscle aches and pains. Dehydration can also cause a strong smell of your urine and a dark amber color.

Always remember to consult your physician if you have any questions about your water intake or have any of the signs of dehydration. Chiropractic Physicians are licensed and trained to help with nutritional counseling, diagnose and treat neuromuscular skeletal disorders.