Water makes up over half of our body weight – every cell, tissue, and organ in our body needs it to properly function. There isn’t a clear-cut rule across the board regarding the amount of recommended water consumption, because studies have found various amounts have been recommended over the years. So, how do you know if you're drinking enough?

Typically, the average person should be consuming at least 8 glasses or 64 oz. of H2O daily. However, different factors can increase individual water requirements such as exercise or heavy labor, environment (temperature), overall health or pregnancy.

If you're struggling to meet your daily water-drinking goals, here are a few tips:

• Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning (before your coffee).

• Always carry a water bottle with you. At your favorite online retail store, there are a variety of helpful, refillable water bottles for purchase that can easily assist you with staying on track with your water intake. Look for something that is clearly marked with times and ounces and one that leads you to a daily goal of 64 oz, which is ideal for most people. There are also apps that can be downloaded to help remind you to drink and track your water consumption.

• If you aren't a fan of plain water, try sparkling, flavored, or water with slices of lemons/limes/oranges (a personal favorite). If you don't want to mess with cutting up fruit for your water, try a flavoring packet. The preferred flavor packets are those that are made with real citrus juices; no artificial sweeteners, gluten or sodium and they contain zero calories. Check at your local supermarket or online.

Any caffeine-free beverage consumed can technically count toward your fluid requirements for the day, but water is always going to be the best choice!

Stay hydrated my friends,

Allison Collins

MHP Wellness Coordinator/Registered Dietitian

e-mail: acollins@majorhospital.org