Water

I am really confused on this water thing?  Am i really suppose to drink 12 glasses of water a day?  What about crystal light?  Does it count as water? 

That's a myth.

You're supposed to stay hydrated, (for health AND weight management reasons,) but the exact number of glasses varies depending on a lot of things. All non-caffeinated liquids hydrate you in varying degrees-- pure water is best but everything you drink or eat that contains water helps. So yes, crystal light counts. Salt and caffeine dehydrate you, so if you have a lot of those you should drink more fluids.

How much water you need depends on your size, the climate you live in and how energetic you are.  Most people need about 1 litre (2 pints) extra fluid a day.  But if you're very heavy, do exercise or if you're in a hot environment you may need more.

Fluids that 'count'.... herb teas, fruit teas, sugar-free squash.... You can even add in things like diet sodas and coffee, but it's wise to limit them to 1 a day or so.

I think recent studies have proven you do not need to consume that much water.

However if you tend to over eat then drinking water is a good idea to curve your hunger.

drinking about 8 glasses a day is more than enough

i probably don't drink enough of anything, i really try too but I can guarantee becasue of my work schedule I don't.

Get used to carrying a bottle of water around with you...even if its one of those mini ones (they can fit in even a very small purse or bag..)

It really helps you remember to drink.

im not exactly sure how many a day your supposed to drink but actually you can get alot of the water in the food you eat. lots of water is in like fruits and vegetables and other foods so you dont exactly have to drink that much water.

learn to know when you are thirsty.  then, drink water.

I have always gone with the goal of half my weight in ounces.  It always seems hard for me to reach though even carrying water with me.

Actually, once you are thirsty your body is already dehydrated.  I live at a high altitude so I have to constantly remind myself to stay hydrated for my body, skin, and health to last longer.  I fill up a cute liter bottle I got a target every morning at work and have it on my desk as I do work.  I make it a mission to remember to stop and breathe and drink water during the day.  It is a good way to break from what you are doing to de-stress and take care of yourself.

Original Post by mf3rg:

Actually, once you are thirsty your body is already dehydrated.

 This is so true. I heard in one of my classes that humans are especially bad for this; we are usually about 75% dehydrated before we feel thirsty. So try to drink enough water so that you don't ever feel thirsty!