Starting Off Your Day

Upon rising, most people start off their day with some type of caffeinated beverage like coffee or tea, and in some real extreme cases a soda or "energy drink" like Red Bull to get them going. I too partake of the caffeine ritual by having a small cup of black coffee, but there is an additional way one can start their day.

Water as we know is vital to our bodies. It enables our cells to carry nutrients and energy to them and helps dispose of toxins and metabolic wastes. Based on the fact that our bodies are made up of approximately two thirds water and has such an important role in maintaining a healthy body, we must supply our bodies with enough H2O to help keep our bodies in balance. Exercise and other stresses of life demand our bodies to continually be hydrated to support normal functions so it is important that one consume enough water daily. I usually accompany my cup of Joe with 24 ounces of water to start my day and I have found that consuming water early in the day gives a boost to the metabolism and helps in getting things "flushed out".

Since our bodies are ~ 66% water, lets use a factor of .66 to determine the amount of pure water one should consume in a given day. When I say "pure" water what I mean is not including the additional means of hydrating yourself via herbal teas, fruits and vegetables, just plain old fashioned water. So, using a 170 pound person as an example we calculate .66 x 170 = ~ 112 ounces of water for the day.

In the beginning the amount of water will seem a bit overwhelming to you - especially for your bladder, but your body will quickly get in the habit of drinking and you will become accustom to drinking that much fluid.

Here's a little trick in getting your requied amount of water. Like I suggested earlier, consume 24 or more ounces of water upon rising and then drink 12-16 ounces every hour on the hour until you reach your quota for the day. Our 170 pound individual who needs 112 ounces will start the day with 24 ounces which will leave him 88 left for the day. If he drinks 12 ounces every hour he will achieve his hydration goal in about 7 hours.

Make drinking water a focus for a while, I think you will be amazed at your increased level of energy and may even find that your physqiue appears leaner.

"Train With A Purpose"
www.premierepersonalfitness.com

Fred Fornicola