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We need to drink water for one primary reason: it makes up most of our bodies! When we lose it throughout the day via normal activities as well as exercise, we have to replenish our stores. Below are some percentages:   
Males: 60%, females: 55% (lower because of naturally higher fat content)
Blood: 93% water
Bone: 20% water
Fat: 13% water
Most other tissues: 70-80% -- that's a lot of water!

There is really no substitute for water. Coffee, tea, soda and other beverages may all contain water, but they also contain other chemical compounds which can negate the hydrating effect. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, which means it makes your body lose water. Some beverages such as sports drinks do have added electrolytes (typically sodium and potassium) to replace those lost in strenuous activity or exercise. But for most of us, plain water works perfectly well.

The other problem is that depriving our bodies of water sets up a cycle of stimulant (caffeine, sugar) and fluid-seeking (salt) consumption. Salt helps the body retain water. We may get so dehydrated from drinking a lot of coffee or other caffeinated beverages (including soda), that we then start craving salty foods, which is our body's way of trying to tell us, "hey, I need some actual water here!" A lifelong habit of this creates imbalanced conditions in the body. Water is also the least expensive and most readily available liquid, and can be our first line of defense when experiencing stress.

The amount of daily water requirements varies among individuals, but 3000-5000 mL per day is the average. Drink until you feel full, don't' force it. Most foods also contain water: vegetables, greens and fruit have the highest water content.

Most municipal water supplies are, typically, fine to drink, but try for spring or filtered water. Buying a filter system or pitcher for home may seem expensive at first, but if you are someone who buys bottled water frequently it will help save you money in the long run. So will buying your own reusable water bottle.

5 Easy Ways to Drink More Water Every Day:
1. Drink water first thing in the morning, before having coffee or any other beverage.
2. Drink it with your meals and between them.
3. Carry a bottle with you and sip on it throughout the day.
4. Drink it after exercising, not before.
5. Add a little juice or sliced fruit (lemon, lime or orange) to make it taste better. Sliced cucumber is also a great addition (calms the digestive tract).