Water as Nutrient

 

Did you know that long-term health is significantly impacted by the amount of water you drink? The most abundant nutrient in the body, water compromises two-thirds of the body’s mass.

How Much Water Should I Drink?

Water intake varies from person to person, we are all individuals and therefore have different requirements. According to traditional Chinese medicine it is important to listen to the wisdom of the body and drink according to thirst.

Drinking a glass of water is not the only way to get water, significant amounts of water can be obtained from fruits and vegetables which are more than 90% water. Other foods such as legumes and grains are more than 80% water when cooked. Soups, teas and broths are nearly all water and help keep you hydrated.

Not Enough Water?

Here are some signs that you may not be getting enough water: tension, toxicity in the body, constipation, overeating, dryness and kidney damage. “Heat” symptoms are also a good indicator of the need to drink more water, including feeling too warm, inflammations and fevers. Dehydration can be confused with hunger, it is a good idea to pay attention to if you are hungry or really just thirsty before you grab a snack.

Too Much Water?

Consuming too much water can result in sensations of being cold and may weaken the “digestive fire” of the spleen-pancreas and can also hinder the ability of the kidney-adrenals to provide energy and warmth according to Chinese healing traditions. Consuming too much cold water may cause cravings for animal products vs fruits and veggies.

Timing is Everything…

Timing of water consumption is important. For example if you are going to consume large amounts of water due to hard work, exercise or internal heat is it best to do this 30 minutes before or 1 hour after a meal so as not dilute digestive enzymes and secretions which results in the body not being able to effectively extract the nutrients from food. If you are someone who consumes water with meals it is best to consume only a few ounces of warm water so as to minimize the impact on digestion.

Lemon Water in the AM:

A great way to start the day is by drinking a glass of warm/room temperature water with lemon first thing in the morning, about 30 minutes before eating this helps to flush out the system and support digestion. While we sleep our liver is working hard to remove toxins from the body, beginning the day with a glass of warm lemon water helps to support liver function and flush out the lymph system. By hydrating the body and cells, water provides a natural wake up to our cells that results in an energy boost.

Lemon also provides a little extra boost of Vitamin C which benefits the skin and immune system it can also aid in prevention of kidney stones and build up in other organs such as pancreas and gall bladder.

I love to drink a glass of room temperature lemon water in the morning before I eat or drink anything else. I find it gives me an energy boost and allows me to get the day going right…plus, I love the taste! I use a 16 ounce glass and half a lemon and many mornings find myself using the other half in another glass it has become a ritual that I truly enjoy. I feel better and know that it is good for my body. Give it a try and see what you think! 

Even though we are diluting the lemon in water, I do recommend rinsing your mouth with plain water after consuming lemon water to protect your tooth enamel.

Zen Maxim: “Eat when hungry, drink when thirsty”

 

Gretchen Homer MsACN

References:

Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods- Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition. Berkeley, CA. North Atlantic Books. 2002.

https://www.gaia.com/article/wake-right-drink-lemon-water

Image:  http://mslimalicious.com/2012/04/health-benefits-of-lemon-water.html