NaturalMedications

To keep your body well hydrated, consume enough water, 8 to 12 cups, throughout the day. Because milk, juice, and some other beverages are mainly water, they can count toward your daily water intake. So does water from solid foods, although you can't really measure it.

Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, tea, some soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, aren't your body's best sources of water. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics, causing the body to lose water through increased urination. Decaffeinated beverages, however, don't have a diuretic effect.

If you need to increase your water intake...

Take water breaks during the day instead of coffee breaks. If you're a subconscious "sipper," keep a cup of water on your desk. "Water down" your meals and snacks. Complement food with water, milk, or juice. Occasionally, start your meals with soup.

When you walk by a water fountain, take a drink! Refresh yourself at snack time with juice, milk, or sparkling water. Alternate sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at parties and social gatherings.

Before, during, and after any physical activity, drink water, especially in hot weather. Consume 4 to 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes while you exercise. Don't wait until you feel thirsty!

Travel with a supply of bottled water. Even for day outings, pack along a bottle of water.