In week one we got started, week 2 we eliminated 3 common ingredients in mass produced food ( High Fructose Corn Syrup, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, and Hydrolyzed vegetable Protein). This week, we focus on adding something– water.

Our goal is to increase intake of H20–pure h20, no sweeteners–by drinking one ounce of water for every pound you weigh. At 195 pounds, I’m in for 1 1/2 gallons. That’s a lot more than the “8 x8 ” rule you may be familiar with ( 8 ounces of FLUIDS 8 x per day). Some use the same rule but at 1/2 ounce of water per day. As we like to exercise in the heat 5-7 times per week, many of us need to be at the high end of water intake.

Also, water can aid in your weight loss. Try drinking 16 ounces before you eat. Or, more importantly, when you are craving something you shouldn’t be eating. Especially sweets. Using water as a “buffer” can keep you from a bad decision. If you are increasing your intake of vegetables and fruits– especially if they are raw– then increased water will aid your digestion.

Interesting that the rate of kidney stones in the U.S. has increased– children with kidney stones were a rarity until 15 years ago. The biggest deterrent to getting a kidney stone is water. Water helps your kidneys function properly, especially to remove calcium and other minerals ( kidney stones are essentially made up of these).

Ever get light headed at a workout? Happened to me this morning. At first I thought it was lack of sleep. Then I thought it was medication– thought maybe I had taken more than on anti-inflammatory pills during the night. I got home and have consumed 72 ounces of water already. During a long drive yesterday, I drank diet soda instead of water and munched on salted nuts. Between the 2, I can see how I ended up where I was this morning.

So, this week is an easy one. Keep doing the things from week one, and add H20. Should be an easy one!

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QIC: 1