Sip, Sip. Hooray!

Water. We all need it, but many of us don’t get enough of it.  When your body is in a semi-drought like state,  you are short-changing your health and wellness. Virtually every system in the body relies on water. Water protects and hydrates our organs, transports nutrients to our cells and helps us stay energized and mentally sharp.  .  Your water needs vary depending on how much exercise you get, hormonal levels,   and weight loss or gain.  Here are four ways to identify and increase your daily water intake:

Keep track.  Log your water intake.  Find a system that works for you; electronically, through an app, on a post-it, in your food journal or beads on a bracelet.

Flavor it.  Sometimes we can get tired of standard tap water, so when that happens try infusing a pitcher of water with fresh fruit, cucumbers and herbs.  Each sip will bring you a spa-ahh moment.

Eat your water. You can up your water intake by consuming some of the following foods:

 -     1 cup chicken noodle soup = 8 oz. (of water)

-       1 medium apple = 6 oz.

-       1 cup cherry tomatoes = 5 oz.

-       10 medium baby carrots = 3 oz.

-       1 cup raw broccoli florets = 2 oz.

Cheers.  Use a variety of glass styles and stemware for drinking water at meals.  It will feel festive and  you will drink more H2O.

So, raise a glass or bottle and get on the water bandwagon this month.  You’ll feel and look better when you are properly hydrated.  Bottoms up!