Water: The Simple Solution

The human body needs six to eight glasses (eight ounces each) of water each day to maintain good health. Here are some compelling reasons to follow the guideline:

• Water can thin the blood and prevent clots and heart disease, according to a study at Loma Linda University. Both women and men who drank more than five glasses of pure water per day significantly reduced their risk of heart disease.
• The body can interpret dehydration as hunger, leading people to eat more. Before reaching for a snack, see whether a glass of water banishes the pangs.
• Drink only pure water to meet your daily fluid needs. Sugar can raise cholesterol levels, while both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body-reversing the desired outcome.
• Fiber absorbs water. When you increase your fiber consumption-widely recommended for both heart health and weight loss-your water intake must also increase; otherwise, the additional fiber can soak up the limited water in your system and lead to constipation. Note: Please consult your physician or health care provider for advice and clearance prior to undertaking any type of lifestyle change. The material on this Web site is intended for informational purposes only and is not to be used in place of professional medical advice.