Starting Saturday March 31 we enter into the last challenge for Nutrition Month 2012. Don't forget to like and comment on the Ask A Dietitian SK facebook page or visit me at the Saskatoon Farmer's Market Saturday March 31 from 10am - 12pm to enter our grand prize draw. The prize includes 4 ski passes and gear for Table Mountain,
a General Mills gift basket, a Dietitians of Canada Cookbook, a
Chicken Soup for the Soul book, and an Epicure gift basket.
Water, Essential for Life but how much do I Really Need?
We have always been told to drink eight glasses of water a day, but have you ever wondered why this seems to be the magic number? Research tells us that water is important for our bodies because every cell, tissue and organ contains water. It is essential for life and plays many roles in the body including:
- Controlling body temperature,
- Aiding in digestion,
- Carrying nutrients around the body,
- Helping remove waste in the body, and
- Helping with bowel regularity.
Also, our bodies lose water by sweating, breathing and eliminating waste. If we lose more fluid than we take in, the body can become dehydrated and it may lead to thirst, dry lips,
feeling tired, dizziness, irritability and headaches. So it’s important to drink fluids before you feel thirsty.
What research doesn’t tell us is just how many glasses of water we need each day. There is actually no truth to the claim that everyone needs eight cups of water each day. To further confuse the subject, some guidelines suggest that adult men require 12 cups of fluids per day and adult women require 9 cups. The term “fluids” actually includes water, milk, juice, coffee and tea (this does NOT include pop, energy drinks or alcohol). However, the amount of fluid each person needs depends on age, gender and activity level.
So what’s the bottom line? Drink water. It’s readily available, fresh and free of calories! March is Nutrition Month and dietitians across Canada are encouraging Canadians to re-think your drink and stay hydrated with plain water. Because the amount of water needed by each individual varies, dietitians are challenging you to find out just how much water is right for you! Here are our top 3 tips to help guide you:
- Carry a bottle filled with water to work, in your car and while exercising.
- Drink a glass of water when you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed.
- Drink a glass of water before each meal.
Take our challenge today! Track how much water you drink each day and how many times you choose water instead of sugary drinks. Check us out on facebook and share your results for a chance to win cool prizes. If you have food and nutrition questions you can also Ask A Dietitian by calling 1-800-905-0970.
For more Nutrition Month Myths and Facts visit Dietitians of Canada.
Drink up!
Steph (Wheler) Langdon, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching
