Getting Your Family to Drink
Once you are convinced of water’s importance, it’s time to spread the word. This is sometimes easier said than done.
Some people find water boring and if given a choice, will choose a more interesting beverage. But the effect of water, or the lack thereof, can be seen every day.
School kids are especially susceptible. They get tired and cranky when they are dehydrated. After recess, if they have not fully rehydrated, their attention drifts, and they suffer fatigue. It is not the best way to impress the teacher.
When added to stress, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition, dehydration can lead to dangerous consequences behind the wheel. Avoid high-sugar and high-sodium snacks on long car trips, and always carry water, even on short trips to the market.
Teach kids to stop each time they pass a drinking fountain and take a sip. Give them refillable water bottles to drink from throughout the day.
Alert
Some of the most popular, top-selling, reusable bottles in sporting good stores are made from #7 plastic. If you have these at home, wash them carefully in cool soapy water. If they have been through the dishwasher, discard them.
Adults also suffer from dehydration, especially fatigue and headaches. These symptoms can make everyday activities excruciating. If you develop the habit of sipping water throughout the day, you will notice a marked improvement in your attention and energy levels.
Adequate water also improves skin, flushes toxins, and boosts the metabolism. When you’re hungry, drinking a glass of water before sitting down to a meal will slow your eating and make you full faster.
If you are on a low-carb, high-protein diet, extra water can help remove waste from the digestive system and help to break down stored fat. Don’t forget that you get a lot of water from the food you eat. The more fresh fruits and vegetables you eat raw, before heat from cooking has had a chance to evaporate their waters, the more water you’re getting.
