H2O

Before starting any new exercise regimen it is best we talk about hydration. We can live days, weeks, even months without food, but only 2-3 days without water. On the average, water makes up 60-70% of our body weight. The range is due to the fact that different cells contain diferent amounts of water. Muscle cells, for example, are 70-75% water whereas fat cells are only 10-15% water. Therefore, a muscular person will have a larger percentage of his/her body weight coming from water.

Why is staying hydrated so important?

• in saliva and stomach secretions it helps to digest food
• in blood, it helps transport nutrients and oxygen to all the cells of the body
• in body fluids, it helps lubricate joints and cushions organs and tissues · in urine, it carries waste products out of the body
• in sweat, it removes body heat generated during exercise

*Drinking water is also important for healthy, clear skin.

How much water do I need?

A rule of thumb is 64 oz. which is about 8 glasses of water a day. We also get some fluids from foods we eat (especially fruits and veggies), and from non-caffeinated beverages (fruit juice, sports drinks, milk, vegetable juice, herbal teas).

The chances of drinking too much water is slim to none so feel free to sit back, relax and pour yourself a refreshing glass of H2O, and drink up!

image found-superstock.com, references campushealth.org