There is no simpler or cheaper way to increase your wellness than by drinking more water. As condensed from the site http://www.health-benefit-of-water.com/, the benefits are broad and signifigant:
"water helps to keep skin healthy and keeps the eyes clear and moist
water helps to lubricate the joints and internal organs
water plays a key role in the metabolic breakdown of proteins and carbs, and can assist in weight loss plans
water can help balance ph in the body, which can boost the immune system and help prevent disease
drinking lots of water prevents the retention of fluids
water helps to eliminate body wastes and toxins
water can help maintain muscle tone
water is key in regulating body temperature
water assists in transporting oxygen to the cells"
Getting hard numbers on exactly how much water you should drink is difficult, as there are many variables. Are you active daily at work or do you have a desk job? Are you subjected to extreme heat variables? Lots of water is found in many fruits and vegetables, so if your diet includes lots of produce then that can certainly contribute (or detract if you don't eat those foods). Drinks besides water can count toward your fluid intake unless they are heavily caffeinated or contain lots of sodium, then they may actually work against you in terms of hydration. I would recomment anywhere from half a gallon to a gallon per day as you factor in your level of activity and your body size. Those who exercise regularly will want to consider water as part of their workout, as the toxins produced by hard activity are flushed efficiently from the body with water.If you don't consider yourself a fan of water, try using lemon oil or peppermint oil in your water as well as lots of ice (cold water seems to be more favored in America than tepid water, in terms of drinking). Avoid sugar laden juices in large quantities as they tend to add up to lots of calories and will spike your blood sugar levels. Also be EXTRA cautious about drinking vitamin waters, fitness waters, or Gatorade. Some are loaded with calories and carbs, and they are not meant to be consumed on a casual basis.
If you just can't drink plain water, Propel fitness water only has 10 calories per serving and comes in a ton of flavors (including the single serve packs that can be easily added to a water bottle). Make educated decisions about compromises in regard to water; you can load up on sugars or caffeine if you drink anything but plain, pure water unless you read labels.
Take a few days and make note of everything you drink. You may be shocked to realize how dehydrated your body is! With warmer weather finally here, be sure and drink lots of water and feel the benefits to your health.
