Drink More Water: Cheers to your Health!

Drinking enough water every day is important for your health. Healthy people meet their fluid needs by drinking to thirst and with meals. Most of your fluid needs are met through the water and beverages you drink. Whether at work, running errands, or at school, more and more people are sipping on their water bottles. This popular trend is a healthy one because water is required for our survival. In fact, our bodies need water to support many important functions. These include:
• Keeping your body's temperature normal.
• Lubricating and cushioning joints.
• Protecting your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues.
• Getting rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.

What about diet soda?

• If you do drink it, limit it to 8 ounces per day.
• It does not contain sugar, however it has an acid that can cause cavities and tooth decay.
•Diet soda is a better alternative; nonetheless water is the best way to quench thirst.

What about 100% fruit juice?

• It has vitamins; however it can have as many calories as soda. Choose 100% fruit juice instead of fruit drinks.
• If you do drink it, limit it to 4-6 ounces per day

Facts:

• Although daily fluid intake can come from food and beverages, drinking water is a great way of getting fluids as it has zero calories.
• Your body may lose calcium when you drink caffeinated drinks.
• Soda has no nutritional value.
• Caffeine can make you jittery and disturb your sleep.
• Avoid energy drinks - they contain caffeine, other stimulants, sugar, and few nutrients.

"Think before you drink" tips:

• If you choose drinks other than milk or water, opt for decaffeinated, diet soda, and unsweetened coffee or tea.
• Carry a reusable water-bottle with you everywhere you go.
• Choose water as your main drink during the day
• Dislike plain water?, make infused water by adding juicy fruits and invigorating herbs– makes drinking water interesting and refreshing!

Excerpts from https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/nutrition

Tropical Pineapple and Orange Infused Water

 Makes 2 liters

Ingredients

1 orange, thinly sliced
½ cup thinly sliced pineapple
2 cups of ice
Water

Directions

In a large pitcher, add the orange and pineapple slices. Top with ice and water. Let the pitcher sit in the fridge for 1 hour before serving.
When the water is down to 1/4 full in the pitcher, refill with water and place back in the fridge. You can do this several times. Store the infused water in the fridge up to 24 hours.

Recipe courtesy of http://www.fruitinfusedwaters.com/tropical-pineapple-orange-infused-water/