Pamela J. Perkins, Certified Weight & Wellness Coach

Water Water Everywhere!

No, I’m not talking about our wild spring weather – I’m talking about our body’s need for water!

Heartburn? Stomach ache? Low back pain? Headache? Mental irritation and depression? Water retention? Dehydration can present itself it any of these forms.

According to Dr. Thomas Stearns Lee, “It has become a practice to regard “dry mouth” as a signal of body water needs, which is further assumed to be well-regulated if the sensation of “dry mouth” is not present. A dry mouth is the last outward sign of extreme dehydration; however damage occurs to the body at a persistent lower level of hydration.”

Other interesting facts include:

  • 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. (Likely applies to half the world population)
  • In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak it is mistaken for hunger.
  • Even MILD dehydration will slow down one’s metabolism as much as 3%.
  • One glass of water shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of dieters studied in a University of Washington study.
  • Lack of water is the #1 trigger for daytime fatigue.
  • Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
  • A mere 2% decrease in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page.

So, here’s the real question: Are you drinking the amount of water you should drink every day? Those of you that work with me know the answer! The first goal is to create consistency with your water intake. That means if you currently drink 3 glasses per day, your first goal is to do that with consistency for one week. In the following week, add in another glass, and again the week following until you’ve reached a consistent goal of half your body weight in ounces of water per day. When done over time, this becomes an easy and doable goal.

Cheers to your good health!

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