Page 18 - Seniorstoday November 2021 Issue
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age and sex. Medical conditions: Fever, vomiting and
A male is advised to have about 3.7 litres diarrhoea are certain medical conditions
of liquid a day, about 3 litres of which is that require additional water intake as part
water; a woman is advised about 2.7 litres a of the treatment.
day, 2.2 of which is water.
For kids, the quantity depends on their Is there a best time to drink water?
age-ranging from 5 to 11 cups, as age There are a lot of opinions about when
increases. water should be drunk – from early
Of course, this is an estimate. Some people morning to bedtime, you’ll get to hear a lot
are just fine with lesser quantities, while of diverse advice.
some, like athletes, require much more. Early morning
A lot of people maintain that having a
glass or two of water early in the morning,
preferably warm water, is a great way
to begin a day. It rehydrates, helps in a
smooth bowel movement and helps you
keep hydrated through the day.
Before meals
A lot of dieticians recommend a glass of
It would also depend on certain conditions: water a half hour before meals, as part of
Pregnancy and breast feeding: A woman the weight loss programme. It gives you a
who is expecting or lactating, will need feeling of satiety; you end up controlling
between 10 and 13 cups. your meal portions.
Climate: People living in areas with a hot During and after exercise
climate, or travelling through areas of Have you noticed that your exercise
excessive heat, require more water. instructor gives you a minute break,
Altitude: Generally, people living at higher between exercises, to drink water? This
altitudes (more than 8000 feet above sea is because, when you exercise, the body
level) require more water. This is because loses water through sweat. If not replaced,
the low humidity causes sweat to evaporate it will lead to lethargy and muscle cramps,
faster- you may not realise the amount of hindering your exercise routine.
water you’ve lost. Also, low oxygen levels Added benefits of lime water
cause higher rate of respiration, causing There are times just water isn’t enough, you
you to lose more water than usual. want a different taste. Try squeezing a few
Exercise: Exercise, as everyone knows, drops of lime into it. Lime water is a proven
results in excessive perspiration and health booster!
elevated heart and respiration rates. Containing Vitamin C, it helps boost
Having less water if you’re exercising immunity, aids faster recovery from
strenuously, could cause dehydration. diseases, may help in weight loss, and also
Experts advise that one should have extra tastes like heaven!
half litre water two to three hours before We all have ready excuses as to why our
exercise, as well as about 250 ml extra, water intake isn’t up to the mark…it’s time
after. we start taking the effort to drink up!
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