Looking at this picture, it is obvious that my plant is thirsty and dehydrated. Inwardly, the body responds the same way.

While I chug close to a gallon of water every day, I’m not always so kind to my plants. It’s a good thing that I own plants that are hard to kill.  You know, the type that can survive longer than a week without water, but bounce back after being nourished and fed.  I know, shame on me!

Do you drink water daily?  How much?  A glass? An 8 ounce bottle of water?  Well if you are on a weight loss or get in shape journey, a good start is to drink more water.

Experts estimate that water makes up about 60 percent of the body’s composition. The body uses water every day for regular body functions such as breathing, urinating, and more. Our body needs water to maintain balance and for our organs to work properly.

Did you know that drinking water can increase your energy level?  Yup!  It’s true.

Water Helps Energize Muscles. Cells that don’t maintain their balance of fluids and electrolytes shrivel, which can result in muscle fatigue. “When muscle cells don’t have adequate fluids, they don’t work as well and performance can suffer.       –WebMD

To meet your fitness goals, you must quit drinking soda, juices, and other sugar laced beverages and commit to drink more water. By eliminating your sugar intake, you’re going to drastically reduce your sugar and calorie intake. Did you know that…

 A typical 16-ounce bottle of soda has 44 grams sugar, or about 11 teaspoons (or more).

A few of my strategies to drink more water include:

1. Drink a tall glass of water first thing in the morning.
2. Add fresh fruit such as a lemon, cucumber slices, or orange slices to your water.
3. Set goals throughout the day such as 1 liter before work, another liter by lunch time, and another liter before and or after dinner.
4. Carry a water bottle and drink from it  everywhere you go.
5. If you feel adventurous and are seriously committed to drinking water, buy a gallon bottle.  Use a marker to show your hourly goals on the jug.
6. Drink water before each meal; you will eat less.
7. When you are away from home, strategize so you know where the clean bathrooms are.  Be ready for hourly bathroom visits.
8. Not to be gross or anything, but the clearer in color your urine, the better.
9. Drink water before, during, and after every workout.
10. If you use a journal to track your food intake, include water intake as well.
11. When you find a system that works for you, stick with it.

Don’t think about the water, just drink it! 🙂

Read More About Water

10 Life-Changing Reasons To Drink More Water

Your Muscles Are Thirsty

12 Unexpected Reasons To Drink More Water This Year

10 Ways to Drink More Water