Staying Hydrated

After oxygen, water is the most vital nutrient for our bodies. Despite its importance to our health, few people drink sufficient quantities each day. A healthy water intake enhances both the removal of metabolic waste products from the blood and their excretion by the kidneys. A rough rule of thumb has been to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water per day. Critics of this guideline indicate that a one-size-fits-all approach is not optimal for everyone. It wouldn't make sense for a female athlete to drink the same amount of water as a female nonathlete. For women who want to estimate their fluid intake on their own, a general guideline is .5 to 1 ounce of fluid for each pound of body weight, every day. If you are exercising, weigh yourself before training, drink water or other fluids during training, and weigh yourself again after training. Your weight should be the same as before. If you have lost weight, continue drinking fluids until you reach your pre workout weight. This workout fluid intake is in addition to the general daily intake recommended.