Do not count coffee and soda when tallying up your daily water intake. In fact, they function as diuretics and strip the body of this much needed nutrient. When this occurs the body then fights to retain water levels causing bloating. Conventional wisdom tells you 6-8 glasses of water is enough per day.

Water Clears Out Toxins

Water flushes out toxins and other metabolic waste products from the body. Water is especially important when following a “high protein” diet, as it helps remove excess nitrogen, urea (a toxic substance), and ketones (by products of protein synthesis). If weight training to increase definition (tone) you will need even more water to help your kidneys do their work.

Water Helps Metabolize Fat

Without enough water your kidneys will not function properly. When this happens, some of the filtering workload is transferred to the liver. The livers main function is to metabolize stored fat for energy. If the liver is doing both jobs, it will process less fat. Studies have shown that consuming 2 liters throughout the day leads to increased calorie burn on a daily basis. Water also mitigates feelings of hunger.

Water Reduces Fluid Retention

Contrary to popular belief, drinking water can actually help you shed excess water weight. When water is in short supply the body stores it in extra-cellular space. This storage can lead to bloating. If water retention is a chronic problem, it may be because there is too much salt in your diet. Read your food labels and try to consume less than 2400mg per day. The higher your sodium intake the harder the body will work to retain its’ precious resource (water).

Water Keeps You Regular

Too little water, and your body pulls it from various organs including the colon. When this occurs it can lead to constipation and impeded digestion.

Keep water in mind as you work, live and play. Take small steps every day to reach the “Best” version of you!