How much water should I drink?

Why should you drink water?
Water is probably the most important substance on earth for a healthy body. It makes up approximately 60% of an individual's body mass, and is necessary for our overall well-being and fitness. Doctors suggest that we should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, the following to find out why!

Water and Exercise

• As we exercise our bodies lose water through perspiration.
• Your heart rate and body temperature will remain lower during exercise if you drink water before beginning any activity.
• During exercise, water should be consumed every 20-30 minutes. After you have finished exercise, drink more water to ensure that your body remains well hydrated. Do not rely on thirst alone to determine if you should be drinking more water.
• Water helps to maintain proper muscle tone by preventing dehydration and giving muscles their natural ability to contract.

Water and Weight Loss

• Water naturally suppresses the appetite and helps the body metabolize stored fat.
• Drinking enough water is the best treatment for fluid retention. Other than using a diuretic, the only healthy way to overcome water retention is to give your body plenty of water and only then will excess stored water be released.
• Water helps rid the body of excess waste - especially during times of weight loss when metabolized fat must be shed.
• Water helps to prevent sagging skin that normally follows weight loss. As your body's cells shrink, water buoys these cells, plumping the skin and leaving it clear, healthy and resilient.