Fill Her Up

Two weeks ago, I discussed the health benefits of immersing yourself in water. This week, I need to discuss why it's important to drink it.

I don't know about you but sun exposure dries out my skin; overhead fans dry out my nasal passages and my eyes, and 100 degree weather has caused my sweat glands to go nuts. I love summer, but it plays havoc with staying hydrated.

Water, though not exactly the fountain of youth, is at least the “fount of life” and the most critical substance in the human body. Every organ, tissue and cell needs water to function. It transports nutrients, promotes digestion, and carries away waste. Controlling body temperature and ensuring proper blood volume, water keeps skin, mouth, nose and eyes moist.

Preventing thirst is crucial, particularly for those over 60. Thirst suggests that the optimum level of water in the body (50-75% of weight) is already compromised. In other words, if you're thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Seniors are at particular risk because as aging occurs, the amount of water in the body is reduced and the ability to recognize thirst signals is greatly diminished.

If enough water isn’t ingested, the body will drain the body’s organs and tissues. Symptoms are: headache, fatigue, poor circulation, muscle spasms, kidney failure, and increased body temperature and pulse rate. Weakness will escalate, and labored breathing, dizziness, and even delirium can result.

A minimum of 64 ounces per day of water is the remedy. Absorbed faster than any other drink, water is no calorie and now even injected with vitamins and minerals. Fill a a large jug with at least that many ounces first thing in the morning and drink throughout the day until finished. Remember, don't wait until you're thirsty.

Milk, juices, soup, and at least five servings of fruits and vegetables (high water content) are good sources for additional fluid intake.


Modify processes that dry skin. Wear gloves when cleaning, and take warm rather than hot showers. Wash off chlorine after swimming. Slather on oils or lotions before completely drying hands or body to lock in moisture. Use drops to prevent dry-eye before going to sleep, and drink, drink, drink!