Drinking Water Week is May 6-12

Contact:  Jeff Grubbs 502-564-3410

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 8, 2007) --  Feeling tired? Ever have a headache, feel lightheaded or dizzy? Drinking water may be the antidote. Drinking Water Week, May 6-12, is a good time to get into the habit of drinking more water. Nutritionists emphasize the importance of water, particularly for children.

A Cornell University Medical Center study showed that children who drink more than 12 ounces of sweetened beverages daily are prone to obesity and reduced growth. Additionally, 70 percent of preschool children drink no water during the day.

Water is an important part of our diet. The brain is 75 percent water. Total body mass is 60 percent to 70 percent water. Dehydration will cause fatigue, lightheadedness, headaches, dizziness and nausea. Without food, a human can survive for weeks. Without water, a person may die within days. Water regulates body temperature, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, removes waste, cushions joints and protects organs and tissues.

Here are some ideas for increasing water consumption:

• Drink at least eight 10-ounce glasses of water a day to remain hydrated, and encourage your children to do the same.
• Add a bit of lemon or lime to water for a touch of flavor. Flavored drink mixes and flavored water are also available, but avoid those sweetened with sugar.
• Do not substitute soda for water when hydrating your body. Most sodas contain sugar and caffeine, which may speed dehydration.

For more information on drinking water, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.