When it comes to improving our health, the first thing often discussed is the food we eat. Eating a nutritious plant-based diet is definitely important for our health and well being. But drinking quality water is just as important. Additionally, it’s important to learn a few guidelines on how to drink water to get the most benefit for our health.

A person can go up to several weeks without eating depending on their health condition. But going just a few days without water can lead to death.Yet many times people do not hydrate their bodies sufficiently. Why would a person not drink enough water when it is so essential to life? Could they be drinking too many other types of drinks – such as coffee, soda, or milk? Do they not like the taste of water?

Maybe they just don’t understand how important drinking good water is essential for the health of our bodies.

Here are 5 basic tips about HOW and WHY to drink water on a plant-based diet.

Water keeps us hydrated.

A large proportion of our body is water. Our blood is 90% water. We lose some moisture throughout the day when we breathe, through bowel movements and urination, and when sweating.

The rate at which we lose water or become dehydrated depends on factors such as our diet, our activities, or the environment we around us (temperature, humidity, wind factor….). So we need to replenish the moisture we have lost to maintain proper hydration level of our body.

We drink water to transport minerals and nutrients throughout the cells.

If we ate the most nutrient dense Plant Based diet in the world but didn’t drink enough water, we would not properly assimilate all those wonderful vitamins and minerals our body needs to be nourished.

Water quality is important.

A person could have all the water to drink in the world. But if the quality is bad, it could do more harm than good. Quality can be effected by the purification process or by what chemicals are used by water treatment facilities. So a good quality filtering system at least for the kitchen is important. Our family uses the Enagic LeveLuk SD501. This system also controls the pH level of the water running from your faucet.

PH levels and water

Water of different pH levels are for different uses (cleaning, cosmetics, medications, drinking). However, the Enagic LeveLuk SD501 is a bit expensive. So if you are looking for a more economical kitchen countertop water filtration system, here is another option –  AquaTruCountertop Water Filter Purification System with Exclusive 4 – Stage Ultra Reverse Osmosis Technology (No Plumbing or Installation Required) | BPA Free.

Whichever system you decide to buy, find out how long it takes the system to filtrate the water.

A friend of mine bought a system for a very cheap price. However it took 2 minutes just to filter 8 ounces of water. The company said the system was extra slow because of the high quality of the filter system. They suggested using the system to fill a large container with water to store, rather that filling a cup each time a drink of water is required.

So it is good to do the research. Find out how long it takes the system to filter the water. Inquire about what type of filtration system process is used. Ask what impurities the system actually filter from the water. It is also good to know the type and quality of the water in your area (pH levels, chemicals, etc…). That knowledge will help you decide what type of system will best suit your needs.

Proper water storage is vital.

These days it’s popular to walk around sipping water out of a flimsy plastic bottle. Often the bottle has been sitting in a hot car with the sun beating down on it. Something to avoid if you want a great tasting, healthy source of water.

But sometimes we do need to tote water with us. The best materials for toting water are bottles made of glass or stainless steel. I love using stainless steel the best. It doesn’t break and it keeps the water cool for much of the day.

Here is a good one you can buy off Amazon with a variety of colours to choose from. – Milton Thermosteel Duo DLX 1000, Double Walled Vacuum Insulated Flask 1000 ml. 

How to drink water – When to drink.

It is best to drink water no more than half an hour before eating a meal or two hours after eating. If you must drink with a meal, just take small sips. Too much water while eating or right after eating will interfere with proper digestion of those essential vitamins and minerals we are hoping to gain by eating a healthy diet. Some people like sipping on water while working out, especially when doing a long or intense session. That is a good idea since a lot of moisture is being lost in these activities.

Are you one of the dry ones?

Some people tend to become dehydrated. Or they may develop dry skin more quickly than others, just because of their personal body makeup. I am one of those people. I notice if I don’t drink enough water at several intervals throughout the day, I can become very tired. Also my skin looks dry. My thinking abilities diminish. So we drier people have to really focus on keeping well hydrated. However, focus on proper hydration is something all humans want to be alert to.

Most people eating a standard diet and in reasonably good health would do well to drink 2 to 3 litres of water a day. Those who eat a primarily raw food diet, especially one which includes mostly fruit, may not need this much.

If you have any health concerns, such as kidney disease, it would be a good idea to speak to your health care provider to determine the best amount of water to drink in your situation.

Bonus Tip!

One of the best sources of water that we can find is in moisture rich fruits. This includes apples, oranges, and berries.  So next time you pull up for that bottle of water after a long drive, why not grab an apple or an orange as well???!!!

Sincerely