Naturalized Health

One of the most important elements to sustaining human life is water. It's even suggested that the average person, who only maintains a minimal activity level, consumes at least 64 ounces of water a day. An astonishing feat, sometime it's hard to reach even half that goal in my daily life. There is always water available; a filter on the refrigerator at work, bottles all over the house, and even water filters right on the faucet; it's a matter of remembering to drink!

Those who drink more water have softer, more elastic skin, which can give your skin a youthful glow. Those who drink more water also have an easier time losing weight and keeping it off, studies show. So for your health and for your beauty --- Remember to drink plenty of water!

If you are like most people, you probably have trouble getting your 8 tall glasses of water in each day. Here are some ways to ensure that you are taking in more water.

Put a glass of water or water bottle (store bottle or self filled container) next to your bed every night when you go to sleep. In the morning, make sure that the water is gone before you get up to start your day! Now, this isn't an excuse to get to stay in bed for an extra hour, not wanting to drink. Use it, instead, as a motivational tool: you are already starting the day right by hydrating your body!

Once you are up and are reaching for your glass of juice in the morning add some water. Juice, although very beneficial, usually contains a lot of sugar. By adding in some water you will sneak in more H2O and less sugar.

Before every meal make sure you drink a glass of water. If you do, you will not only increase your water intake, but you'll be less likely to overeat or eat too quickly due to hunger. You will be able to watch your portions while increasing your water intake as well. Increased water will also aid in your digestion, prevent constipation and help keep your urinary tract and colon clean.

Make sure to have water with you at all time. Whether you are shopping with a friend, walking your dog, or running errands on your way home from work, make sure to have a bottle of water with you at all times! Soon, this will become a habit and you will really miss not having your bottle of water with you, once you get used to having it around. It will be something you take with you just like your car keys.

When you're thirsty, but want some flavor, squeeze a lemon or organge slice into your glass of water or some other type of fruit juice. This may sound obvious to you, but you'll be amazed how much more water you will drink when it contains just a hint of flavor. Don't worry about just using "lemon" either, you can throw in whatever type of fruit you enjoy into your water just to mix it up. Frozen fruit or frozen berries works well too, instead of ice cubes, try some frozen blueberries.

Finally, when you are craving the bubble of carbonated soda, remember.seltzer counts as water! Grab your favorite flavor of seltzer water or, again, add your favorite fruit to your bubbles and have fun staying hydrated.