“Drink!...”

Eliezer had set the test in motion. Eager to see how things would pan out, he approaches Rivka to ask for some water from her pitcher. She responds by giving him and offering to draw even more water for his camels. This pivotal moment connected her destiny to the future nation that would emerge from her marriage to Eliezer’s master, Yitzchak.

Last week we looked at how water during a meal may not be the best choice of what to drink. In this column I want to focus on where water is most beneficial and why it is important to prioritize water intake to stay hydrated.

Drinking water is essential for maintaining proper bodily functions, as it plays a vital role in hydration, digestion, and nutrient absorption. The human body is composed of approximately 60% water, which means staying hydrated is crucial for ensuring that all physiological processes operate efficiently. Water aids in regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, and supporting the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Without adequate water intake, our cells and organs cannot perform optimally, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, and impaired cognitive and physical performance.

In addition to supporting basic bodily functions, water is critical for the removal of waste. It’s needed to allow the kidneys to filter toxins from the blood properly and to keep digested food moving well through the intestines. When food sits around too long in the digestive system, all kinds of harmful bacteria thrive and force the body to work harder and sustain more wear and tear.

So how much should you drink and when? Here are a few good rules to live by

• Don’t Wait Till You’re Thirsty! When your body is feeling thirsty it may be a sign that you are already mildly dehydrated.?
• Drink at least and 8 ounce cup of water 8 times per day. If you can try to increase this to 10 or 12 depending on your weight.
• Have a full cup about 30 minutes before you anticipate eating your meal. This can reduce the amount of appetite you have and therefore cut down on some potential overeating.?

How much water are you having each day? Try to mindfully increase it if you are falling short. An added benefit will be more opportunities to say Asher Yatzar and contemplate the wondrous body that Hashem bestowed to you with His kindness!