Now that hot weather is here, it’s important to make hydration a priority. Did you know that your body is made up of between 60-75% water? It’s no surprise that how much you drink can affect your health. Too much water could result in mineral imbalances, while too little could cause dehydration, headaches or fatigue.

So, how much should you drink? The amount of water our bodies need to function properly really varies for each person. On average, men should ingest about 3 liters (13 cups) and women about 2.2 liters (9 cups) of water each day.  But, variables such as how much you spend exercising or outdoors in heat, how much fresh fruit and green leafies you eat, and more affect how much hydration you need.

Always drink more water in the following situations:
*Hot/humid temperature
*High altitude (above 8,200 feet)
*High exercise level
*Illness of fever, diarrhea, vomiting
*Infections of the bladder or urinary tract
*Pregnancy/breast feeding
*Increased alcohol intake

What is the best type of water to consume?

There are many types of water including tap, bottled, filtered, distilled, and alkaline ionized water.

Tap water, although the most readily available, may not always be the safest option. Some cities have very good purification systems, while others leave traces of chlorination by-products, lead and sometimes bacteria. Research your city’s Consumer Confidence Report distributed every year by the Environmental Protection Agency to see if additional home purification is warranted. You can find information on Denver city water here.

Water filters can help to remove contaminants when environmental toxins pose a threat to water systems. (This is what I use)

Bottled water has become a popular option; however, there are growing concerns about chemicals from the plastic seeping into the water, as well as the effects that the increasing number of bottles is having on the environment.

Water ionizers are gaining more recognition for their ability to create alkaline ionized water through electrolysis, which may have certain health benefits.

Next week, I’ll share my top ten tips to stay hydrated, so stay tuned!