The wonders of hydration

Our body functions best when it is homeostasis, or balance.  When there is not enough fluids in our body, the nutrients cannot cross the cell membranes.  Hence, cells starve.  One way to help keep our body functioning at its best is to consume enough fluids.  There are several thoughts on how much that is.  Traditionally, it was said 8 glasses of water (a glass being 8-oz).  For some people, that is enough; for others, it is too little.  According to the Mayo Clinic (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283/NSECTIONGROUP=2), we need more than 8 glasses. 

Your challenge is to read the article and track how much liquid you are drinking.  I also want to you see what kind of liquid you are drinking.  There are many specialty waters on the market that sound great; however, they are full of sugars and have no proof of actually being healthy.  Read the labels to see what you are consuming.  Gatorade is perfect when doing an endurance sport; if you are working out less than 90 minutes, then water will help keep the body balanced.  When in doubt, stick with water.

How do you know when you have enough liquids?  First, you do not feel thirsty.  By the time the body registers thirst, you are already dehydrating.  Second, you are not hungry right after eating.  If you are hungry an hour after a meal, try hydrating first; you may be dehydrated.  Third, your urine is clear and does not smell.  The kidneys need to be properly hydrated for them to filter and clean.  If your urine is yellow or orange and smells, the kidneys are not doing their job, and you may be dehydrated.