A healthy You: Back to the Very Basics - Water

We all know that water is important for us but many of us are chronically dehydrated. So how much water do we really need?The answer varies from person to person and for different times in our lives and for different situations.For example, when you are undergoing cancer treatments, you will need to increase your water intake. If you are very active, you will need more water.A general rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces. So , if you weigh 160 pounds, you will need to drink about 80 oz of water in a day, And just remember that if you are thirsty you are already dehydrated.Hints to increase your water:

• Have a glass of water before you brush your teeth.
• Add lemon or limes to give your water some zip.
• Use a fancy water goblet to make you feel special.
• If you drink adequate water, you will be awarded with glowing skin.
• Have a glass of water every hour and then in 8 hours, your water requirements are fulfilled.

A Healthy You is a regular column about nutrition, healthy living and cancer care. It is written by Cindy Gates, RD and LD and the Cancer Center’s Oncology dietitian, herbalist and Certified Wellness Coach.