Do you drink enough water? Studies show that at least half of Americans aren’t staying hydrated enough. If you are feeling tired, too warm, or hungry all the time, try tipping the water glass more often.

Water dissolves minerals and nutrients and delivers them to the whole body via the blood, and blood cells need water to function.

If you are not getting enough water to those very sensitive brain cells, what do you think happens to your ability to think well? As a teacher, you might want to give a few more water breaks each day or remind students to guzzle during class. If you’re a student, give your brain enough water to work at full throttle. As an employee, you might install a water cooler and encourage your employees to fill up frequently. As a parent, encourage your children to drink plenty of water – especially toddlers who might not think to ask for water when they are thirsty.

Water helps keep your body temperature regulated and makes you more comfortable. It keeps your joints lubricated, flushes toxins out of your system, and helps prevent constipation (not a comfortable condition).

If you are active or an aspiring athlete, one of the keys to your success may be in staying well-hydrated.

Summer is a time when it is easy to get dehydrated.  Eight, 8 oz. glasses of water are recommended for an adult. More might be necessary in summer when you are physically active and you perspire more. Here are a few tips that might help you keep your water intake on target.

• Plan & prepare to drink water throughout the day.
• At meals, drink water between bites.
• Carry a bottle of water with you and sip on it.
• Drink water while you drive or ride (Just keep your eyes on the road as you do. This goes for backseat drivers too).
• Drink water before, during, and after exercise.
• Order water first thing when you are dining out.

If you are feeling a bit warm and worn out for no apparent reason you may need to drink more water. It may help keep you from eating more and might even help you shed a few pounds – especially if instead of choosing sugary drinks you choose a cool glass of great-tasting, zero-calorie water.