Mark McClure DDS
Water cleans, purifies, enlivens, refreshes and quenches thirst. It splashes, rains, runs and makes everything grow…Water is this unique substance that seems to contain the essence of life itself.
Water is as much a nutrient as food. The human body is composed of 25% solid matter and 74% water. The brain is 85% water. You can survive for weeks without food; however, you can’t survive for more than a few days without water.
Water is the most important detoxification agent and is the solvent that makes all bodily functions possible. The quantity and quality of the water you drink has a direct effect on your short and long-term health.
Natural drinking water is the most critical factor to health. The quantity and quality of the water you drink has a direct effect on short and long term health.
Quantity- How much Water Should You Drink?
The quantity of water is important! Try to consume 1-2 quarts (or 4-8 eight ounces) of water a day.
The easy answer is drink whenever you are thirsty; however, if you have chronic dehydration your thirst mechanism does not work well and you may not feel thirst. Whether you are recovering or maintaining your health the suggestions are the same, drink a minimum of 6-8 eight ounce glasses of water per day and more if you are exercising or in hot weather. Alcohol, tea, coffee and caffeine-containing beverages and sugar/sports drinks do not count because these liquids cause dehydration. The best time to drink water is away from food. If you drink over half a glass of water at meals you may dilute your digestive juices. Your thirst should be satisfied at all times.
Hydration Takes Time
It takes time for hydration therapy (drinking water) to take effect. Like a sponge, the tissue membranes will take on water slowly. The kidneys must be watched for adequate functioning when increasing your water consumption. Measuring your intake of fluids and urine output may be helpful if there’s a question about your kidney function. In addition, electrolytes (salt) and minerals in the water are very important, for we are not just replacing water but the salts and minerals in the water also.
Hydration Therapy
We suggest hydration therapy for many of our patients as an initial step to balance their body chemistries. All biochemical indicators in the bodily fluids are always improved with hydration therapy. To adequately hydrate the body, it is best if you drink a little water at a time over one, two or three days. Tissues and membranes can only take on water slowly. Hydration therapy may take one to three days, depending on your weight.
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Drink 4 ounces of water each half hour