Water, Water, Water!

The first pillar of health according to Dr. Don Colburt is water. Isn't this a recurring theme in every weight-loss, health and beauty regimen? I hear it, I agree with it, but dog-gone, why is it so hard to implement?

I have bought or at least considered every conceivable size, shape and material of water bottle on the market. Too tall, too fat, too heavy, it leaks, it breaks, it melts, it won't open or close and/or the water gets a funny taste. Every bottle is analysed for suitability and found wanting. I had a client who would check the calibration of every water bottle she bought to make sure that it actually held the amount of water it claimed to hold. I never did that but I have been known to calibrate one myself (rubbed off after a few washes).

As for measuring my intake through the day, I've tried using elastic bands and check boxes to keep track, but it seems that as soon as I stop focusing 100% on chugging back that water, I revert to other beverages or stop hydrating altogether. What's up with that?

I like water (some people claim they don't) but I find that it gives me the chills when drinking it ice cold and the frequent bathroom visits are annoying. I've become accustomed now to room temperature water and I try to drink smart--that is, in anticipation of being able to use the facilities!

I am usually a little thirsty when I first wake up, when I workout, and in the evening after supper. Got to watch that I don't save it all to the end of the day or it will be a long night of bathroom visits!

Shawn and I have been drinking filtered tap water for years but after viewing the 7 pillars DVD we debated on whether to upgrade to a better system. In the meantime, I decided to focus on following Don Colburt's water consumption recommendations: Half your body weight (lbs) in water (oz). For me that's roughly 62.5 oz a day. I average 32 oz.

Currently my favorite water container is a washed-out Fruitopia glass bottle with a metal screwtop lid. Many health professionals recommend drinking out of glass or stainless steel instead of plastic and I like the taste better too. The Fruitopia bottles fit into standard cup holders which makes them easier to carry with me through the day. The downside, don't drop it or it will break and make a big mess!

How do I get the empty bottles? Good question. Currently, the only place I have found them is at Shopper's Drug Mart in the refrgerator case. Shawn is not as conscientous about sugar consuption as I am so he graciously drinks the juice and gives me the bottles. If he wasn't so inclined, I would just pour out the juice and keep the glass-still a bargain as far as water bottles go because they last a long time and usually only have to be replaced because I lose them.

So this year even if I don't achieve any other health habits beyond what I have accomplished so far, but only get this water habit to the point where I am doing it without thinking, 2010 will be a smashing success.