What “drink 6-8 glasses of water daily” doesn’t mean

The cleansing and hydration benefits your body gets from adequate water intake are usually reflected in your mirror in improved skin tone and even, say some women, fewer breakouts.

But don’t cheat

Did you know that?




It may contain water but it doesn't serve your body the way plain water does.




You figure, "Hey, it's made with water, so I'm drinking water!" Wrong. In fact, coffee dehydrates your body by acting as a diuretic, so it increases your need for water.




Drinking carbonated water is better than drinking none, but it's not ideal. Anytime water contains anything besides H20, including the gas in bubbles, your body processes it like food and that requires effort. Plain water goes through your system effortlessly.

Bubbly water may be useful as an interim beverage when you're trying to kick sodas. Here's how: Switch from sodas to carbonated water for awhile, to get the same "mouth feel" without the chemicals and caffeine. Once you've made that change, move from carbonated to still water.




Drinking water with meals dilutes the digestive process and reduces absorption of nutrients from food.




Sip all day but start the day with a big gulp of water --- a half-liter at first, working up to a full liter. This is great for digestion. Carry a small bottle with you during the day to remind yourself to drink up.