Do you drink enough of water? Do you like it or does it seem like a chore? I recently participated in a “drinking water challenge” where we were drinking a GALLON per DAY!!! It was a lot. But like anything, when we set a goal, write it down, and plan to succeed in it, it is possible, at least in the short term. It helped me to be more intentional about drinking water.
Since our body is made up of 50-65% water, it is so important for our overall health. It helps flush toxins from our body through our kidneys. (if you get kidney stones it could be a sign of not enough water and perhaps too much soda) We are continually exposed to toxins in the environment and from our food and medicine. And even from certain supplements since the supplement industry is not regulated by the FDA! (one of the many reasons we use Shaklee) Water can help flush the toxins and help with overall health and energy levels. It also can help with weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight as well as maintaining healthy skin and muscles and can help alleviate things like headaches and constipation.
I have learned that when you’re setting a big goal, you will need to break it down into smaller goals or benchmarks. Over time you can create a new habit. 21 days may not do it for you. It may take longer to create habits. After all, it probably took longer than 21 days to develop the habit you’re trying to change so don’t expect your new healthier habit to change in 3 weeks either.
So if you’re not used to drinking water at all, then simply starting with one glass may be enough. Or replacing one sugary drink (which includes artificially sweetened drinks like diet soda which are usually worse for your body than an regular soda) with a glass or even a sip of water! Start small and build. You may need to fill different water glasses or water bottles up and have them around your house or office to help you build this new habit in. And when you take that sip or have that glass, celebrate it! Say “yes!” when you accomplish a small step toward your new goal or habit. Psychologically, this can help you feel good about your small step and encourage you to take that bigger step.
How much water should you drink? I like to set the goal to drink half of my body weight in ounces of water daily. So take your weight and divide by 2. Then divide that number by 8 and that will tell you how many 8 ounce glasses you should strive for daily. But if you’re not drinking nearly close to that number then start with one glass. Or half of your ultimate goal and build from there. Remember to celebrate your successes along the way and you will be well on your way to a new habit!
When you go out to eat, try ordering water! It will save on your budget and also your waistline and helps you to enjoy your meal rather than feeling full from your beverage. I like to add fresh lemon to my water first thing in the morning. It helps to wake you up and helps to flush the body of toxins. It also can help with metabolism. And since fruit and vegetables have a lot of water, increase your intake of those! Also great for your waistline and energy levels.
Be sure to use a good filter if your tap water isn’t great to drink. We use and love This Filter because it makes our water taste great and filters so much, including lead.
How much water do you drink daily? Are you getting enough?
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