Are You Drinking Enough?

The summer brings with it a thirst not only on a physical level but also for knowledge. Water is important for any detox work we do to keep our energy levels up. At this time of year, we generally lose a lot of water because of the heat but we need more of it to make the most of the cleansing summer energy. In this article, I provide answers to some of your more specific questions about this popular topic that I covered in my free ecourse. I also offer you a simple tool to help you check whether you're drinking enough this summer.

Q: When is it best to drink water?

A: It's best to drink water (a glass) at least 1 hour before or after meals. If you forget, then drink a glass of warm water up to 30 minutes before.

Q: What about drinking before going to bed?

A: If you are thirsty, then have a glass of water, but it is best to drink as little as possible to avoid having to get up in the night to go to the toilet. Ideally, stop drinking water at least one hour before going to bed.

Q: Why does drinking a glass of water sometimes help cure hunger pangs?

A: Because often when we think we're hungry we are in fact thirsty

Q: How can drinking water help a sugar craving?

A: When we get dehydrated we can lose concentration and feel tired. Our body can respond by wanting sugar because sugar is a quick way to get a lift. If we drink some water, we take away the need for the sugar.

Some readers who took my e-course indicated that they didn't feel they drank enough water. This comment caused me to create this quick quiz. To help you check whether you're drinking enough this summer take the quiz at http://www.nutrijyoti.com/water_test.htm.nnDo you feel you're drinking enough? Need a few ideas to help you boost your water intake? Here are 3 of my favourite and easy ways to get started.

1. Start the day with a cup of hot water with a generous dash of fresh lemon juice. This is a tasty way to give your digestive system and your liver a boost for the day.
2. Drink a glass of (warm/hot) water instead of a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of wine. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics and cause the body to lose water so, at the very least, drink a glass of water for every cup of glass of wine you drink.
3. Have water constantly near you throughout the day, e.g. on your desk or in your bag, so you can take a sip when you feel like it.

Copyright © 2008 All rights reserved Janet Gomezn