This month-long H2O experiment had some interesting results.
(There was a time when my bloodmighthave had the viscosity of syrup.)
I really only consumed water when engaged in activities like mountain biking, running and backpacking.
Photo: getty images / Jose A. Bernat Bacete
After turning 50, however, I began reevaluating my daily fluid intake.
Why was I embarking on this journey to drink more water and fewer sugary drinks?
“Getting enough water is important for your immunity, skin, joints, sleep quality and more.”
So drinking it continuously throughout the day was difficult.
Valente suggested thatrather than a specific number, I should try paying attention to my body’s hydration cues.
“While 64 ounces is a good goal, you’ll want to monitor your urine.
The pee test is one of the best we have to check for dehydration,” says Valente.
Here’s what happened when I upped my water intake for a month.
Increased Energy
Scientifically speaking, I can’t validate that I had an increase in my metabolism.
And it was hard for me to lose those final extra pounds, no matter how hard I tried.
But by the third day, my body started to respond and flushed out the extra fluid.
Stronger Immune System
A stronger immune system is important to stay healthy.
I noticed that increasing my water intake allowed me to stay more focused during the day.
Before, I was more concerned with what other beverage I could partake of and was easily distracted.
So my sugar-laden drink habit would send my blood sugar soaringand then crashing.
During the impending crash, my brain would trigger the need to replenish its energy.
And so I wouldand the sugary beverage habit cycle continued.
As we age, joints tend to succumb to greater amounts of inflammation.
My high sugar intake didn’t help with that since sugar is a known culprit of inflammation.
Add to that, being well-hydrated also helps to increase the synovial fluid in joints.
Synovial fluid is like joint oil and allows the joints to move more smoothly.
The Bottom Line
Water is still, in my opinion, very bland.
I was perpetually looking for alternatives or adding in items to make it more palatable.
Valente suggested that I try flavored sparkling water or a splash of juice in plain H2O.
“Anything to make water less boring and to get you to drink more is a good idea.
