Can't Take The Heat? Drink This.

In these sweltering July days of summer, it's important to stay hydrated. Hydration in the body is absolutely essential for good health.

The body is comprised mostly of water and fluids from foods and beverages. Water makes up 60 percent of body weight. The proper balance between water and electrolytes determines how most of the body's systems function, including muscles and nerves. Water in the body is needed to control body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, maintain a healthy metabolism as well as transport oxygen and many other nutrients to the cells. 

We lose water through breathing, sweating and urination, so fluids in the body need to be replaced to maintain all of these functions.

So how much fluid do we need to stay hydrated? The Institute of Medicine recommends that men consume around 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day and women consume 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) of total beverages a day.

What's the next best thing to water to stay hydrated, is healthy and refreshing? You guessed it:  coconut water! It is more nutritious than whole milk with less fat and no cholesterol. Energy drinks and other sport drinks cannot hold a candle to coconut water, as it is a natural isotonic drink containing the same level of electrolytic balance as we have in our blood, in addition to large amounts of potassium. 

Coconut water comes in a variety of great flavors, and you can pick some up at the Wildwood Dierbergs. My favorite flavor is mango, but they are all really tasty.

Try some coconut water this weekend to beat the heat, and let me know what you think!