Clear, pure, wonderful water!!

You are probably wondering why I would propose a water drinking challenge when you are already required to drink 48 ounces (6 cups) of water per day for the challenge. Well the answer is because many sources propose that you need even more than that.

Water is your body's principal chemical component and makes up about 50-65 percent of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues.

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.

I don’t know about you but I’ve found that if I have a headache it is almost always because I have fallen short in my water drinking. Some say that if you take a pill for a headache it may be the water that brings relief rather than the medication.

Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.

So how much fluid does the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate need? The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day. The AI for women is 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) of total beverages a day. 9 cups of water is 72 ounces. Wowsers!

So you guessed it. We are going to have a whacky water drinking challenge. And no you may not count coffee or soda toward those totals. I will be kind and let you use water flavoring drops if you must. Every day that you drink 72 ounces (9 cups of water) you can claim your daily challenge points. Drink up ladies.