Drinking water is an idea that's not all wet

By Janet Frank Atkinson

　　If Abraham Maslow had written the fitness hierarchy of needs, water would be the pyramid's most important block. A person can survive seeks without food but only a few days without water.

　　The recommended water consumption for adults is at least eight cups (64 ounces, or two quarts) a day. Water should be consumed regularly throughout the day because it cannot be stored in our bodies like carbohydrates, fat and protein.

　　Drinking water frequently throughout the day helps keep the metabolism going, thus contributing to weight loss. Water assists in flushing the body of waste; the most unusable substances exit the body through urine. That includes fat deposits. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, drinking an additional 1.5 quarts of water per day while following a nutritious diet can maximize fat loss. Water also can help suppress the appetite.

　　Drinking water between weight-lifting sets aids in muscle repair and recovery. After all, water constitutes 73 percent of lean muscle tissue. With properly hydrated muscles, you may find that you can push more weight and have a more effective workout. Without proper hydration, you compromise your workouts and decrease the body's ability to repair muscles between lifting sessions.

　　Cant's stand the taste of plain water? Try adding slices of lemon or lime. Flavored water works, too, but make sure it's not loaded with sugar. If the carbohydrate portion of the nutrition label reads anything other than zero carbohydrates, the water contains sugar.

　　Here are some tips on how to develop a good water-consumption habit:

　　·Carry a bottle of water with you at all times. Make sure you have a full bottle before leaving the house to run errands or while making the morning and evening commute.

　　·Keep a water bottle at your desk to encourage you to drink water throughout the day.

　　·When eating out, order a glass of water along with your beverage of choice. Drink the water first, then your other beverage. Make this a practice before all meals.

　　·For weight lifters, drink a couple glasses of water after your session in addition to drinking between sets.

　　Remember, it is best to consume water throughout the day. However, if you want a good night's sleep, cease drinking water about three hours before going to bed.