Health Benefits

Experts rank water 2nd only to oxygen as essential for life. A person can live for only a few days without it. Water is the most abundant substance on the earth and in the body. It makes up 60-75% of body weight and is important in numerous bodily processes and functions.

Used in the blood to transport nutrients, oxygen and glucose to all parts of the body and aids in digestion. Water is a joint lubricant and cushion for organs. It lowers body temperature through perspiration, improves skin texture and is useful in preventing a range of illnesses and maintaining the bodies natural balance.

Because of its importance in the body, experts recommend that every adult consume at least eight 8 glasses of water every day. Depending on body size and physical activity, men and women may need to drink even more than that to meet their bodies' needs. Every person loses approximately 2.5 litres of water per day through perspiration, respiration and other processes. Very few people replenish this loss.

Tips for monitoring water intake include: take water breaks instead of coffee breaks; choose decaffeinated coffee and tea; drink two cups of water 2-2 ½ hours before schedule physical activity and again 15 minutes before the activity, ½ cup of water every 15 minutes during activity and then 2 cups per pound of water weight lost during the exercise session; keep a water bottle or cup with you at your desk throughout the day, try fruit juice and sparkling water or a slice of lime to add flavour.