What is the substance that contains zero calories, makes up 60 percent of our body weight and is practically free? The answer is water. Two thirds of our bodies are composed of water, making it the body’s most vital nutrient.
Many people underestimate their need for water. It is recommended that we drink around 8 glasses per day. A more exact method to determine the amount of water you need is to divide your weight in pounds in half. That number represents how many ounces of water you need in a 24 hour period. So a 150 pound person needs 75 ounces of water.
There are many reasons why water is so valuable. It helps your body digest food and absorbs nutrients and keeps your body systems working properly. Water helps to carry away waste materials and it helps cool the body through perspiration.
Many years ago, when I quit drinking soda, I found that adding a slice of lemon or lime to water made it taste delicious. A popular beverage at functions I have attended recently is fruit infused water. There are some attractive dispensers on the market that make this an easy way to add flavor to water. I know of several work sites that offer their employees free fruit infused water throughout the work day. That is a much better choice than the high sugar or caffeine drinks that so many people are drinking.
Try making water a drink option at both mealtime and snacks. Offer children water when they want to snack just before a scheduled meal. Often we think we are hungry when we are really thirsty!
Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads
I hope you are taking time to celebrate all of the dads in your family today. I feel blessed to have had a great dad who worked hard providing for our family and who believed in the value of education. And I am fortunate to have a wonderful husband who has been a great role model for our sons, son-in-law, and now our grandkids. Happy Father’s Day!