Water is a critical, but often overlooked nutrient. Unlike some other nutrients, water is not stored for times when the body's requirements rise. Dehydration can result if one does not heed life's call for increased fluids during these times of greater need.

While drinking water is important year-round, it is particularly important during the summer season. Signs of dehydration include increased fatigue, flushing of the face, loss of appetite, headache and lightheadedness. Burning sensations in one's stomach or cramped muscles can also alert one to the early onset of dehydration.Many people only stop to restore their "water shortage" when they become thirsty. They use their sensation of thirst as a reminder to drink water, much like the sensation of hunger signifies their need for a snack or meal. This neglectful stance towards water refreshment can be dangerous, as unfortunately, the absence of thirst is not a telltale sign of adequate hydration. This holds true, especially when extreme highs in both temperature and barometric readings take place. To maintain your fluid assets, schedule regular water breaks into your day. Begin upon arising with your first cup, and have your second when you reach work or, if you work at home, one hour after that. Water may be at room temperature or cold and may be "spiked" by squeezing the juice from half of a fresh orange, lemon, or lime into it, as per personal taste. Chilling a plastic bottle of water in the freezer (leave some room at the top for expansion) can serve a dual purpose. The frozen water bottle can be used to keep a home-prepared bag-lunch cold. By lunch break, the water will have started to melt and will provide yet another means for you to water your insides. Don't stop sipping at lunch time though...keep a filled cup on your desk or countertop as a permanent reminder of your body's cry, "hydrate me!" If you are very active, or if you exercise, plan to drink an extra two cups about two hours before your workout or activity. Then right before beginning, slug down another cup. Include regular water breaks during your activity, every 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the intensity of your exertion. Many people aim for six to eight glasses of water a day. In most individuals, even ten to twelve cups is not overdoing it. For those in good health, consuming more water than your body needs will mean little more than your kidneys going to work to eliminate any excess.

During this season, too much of a good thing--WATER--is wonderful!

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