The Many Wonders of Water: 6 Reasons to Drink Up

We all know how important it is to drink water. We've been told since we were young to drink eight glasses of water a day. We know firsthand how vital water is because we have experienced intense sporting events, hot days and even alcohol hangovers that make the body’s demand for water more evident.
However, when it comes to drinking water for weight loss, it is not always clear how drinking a lot of water can help. Sure, it's known water has no fat, no sugar and zero calories, but it does so much more to help us manage weight and feel great that its benefits should not be overlooked.
More: The Diet Detective: Hydration Basics

Six Reasons to Drink Up

• Water is a natural appetite suppressant. Research shows that drinking a glass of water before meals curbs appetite, helping you eat less and become more satisfied.
• Water speeds up metabolism. Research has shown that an increase in water consumption leads to an increase in the rate in which people burn calories as opposed to storing them as fat.
• Water cleanses the body of toxins. Water improves your blood circulation flushing out toxins and impurities. It also increases water in your skin cells which helps to get rid of wrinkles and helps you look younger.

More: The New Rules of Hydration

• Water boosts your energy. Dehydration leads to fatigue because it impacts the flow of oxygen to the brain and causes your heart to work harder to pump oxygen to all your bodily organs, making you more tired and less alert. By staying hydrated you stay energized.
• Water helps build muscle tone. Water acts a lubricant around your muscle and joints which helps prevent against cramping, allowing you to work out harder and longer.
• Water reduces stress. Studies have shown that dehydration leads to higher cortisol levels—the stress hormone—making it harder to deal with everyday issues. By staying hydrated you will be better equipped to deal everyday problems.

Tips & Tricks for Drinking More Water

• Get a water bottle you love. Purchasing a water bottle that you enjoy drinking from makes a difference in both how likely you are to carry it and sip from it.
• Add lemon or other fruit to your water for flavor.

More: How to Hydrate Before, During and After a Workout

• Drink icy cold water so your body will work hard to convert it to body temperature allowing you to burn more calories.
• Make drinking water a morning ritual. Many people wake up dehydrated. Try drinking a glass of ice cold water when you wake up to jump start your day.
• Always keep a glass of water with you when you’re working so you continue to sip all day.