I Got The Million $ Magic Pill

I know, you want the simple, easy answer to weight loss. Everyone wants the short cut, the magic pill, the one-an-done method to lose belly fat, get the sleek 6-pack abs and look younger. But I bet, if I give you my million dollar pill for free you won't even do it. NOPE! The trillion dollar wellness industry has people believing they need to slather on creams, spray magical waters, sleep on special mattresses (well I do sleep on one that is organic) and look a certain way. My answer to all of that nonsense is STOP! Let's get back to basics. Below I have broken my magic pill down and given you some #science_backed stats, added a few solutions (aka #Recipes) and #tips on how to incorporate into you crazy, hectic lifestyle. Sound good? Please leave a comment, if you'd like more articles like this. I write for several publications and am happy to share some of my favorite blog posts (www.BeccaTebon.com) and articles with you.

Water is one of the simplest solutions.

YUP, H2O!

Are You Drinking Enough Water?

The average adult human body is comprised of 50-60% water. The percentage of water in infants is much higher, typically around 75% water, dropping to 65% by one year of age. Too much water could result in mineral imbalances, while too little could cause dehydration, headaches or fatigue. So, how much should you drink? Bio-individuality applies not only to food but also to the amount of water our bodies need to function properly.

Exercise, drinking coffee or caffeinated beverages have a dehydrating effect on the body and contribute to dryness, pain in joints, fatigue and altering the pH level in your body. 

So how much water should you drink? 

If you are trying to FLUSH weight, toxins and alter your digestion, chances are you’ll need to up your water quantity. The basic rule of thumb is half of an ounce per pound of body weight. Those who have constant thirst should seek to talk to a doctor as many health challenges including diabetes are symptomatic of thirst and excessive urination.

Water intake should be increased in the following situations:

• Hot/humid temperature
• High altitude (above 8,200 feet)
• High exercise level
• Illness of fever, diarrhea, vomiting
• Infections of the bladder or urinary tract
• Pregnancy/breast feeding
• Increased alcohol intake

8 Benefits of Drinking Water

1. Helps Prevent Muscle Cramps. Drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body.

2. Water Helps Energize Muscles. Dehydrated muscles fatigue faster, and won’t be able to get a great pump.

3. Drinking Water Helps Maintain the Balance of Body Fluids. Your body functions require water to properly aid in absorption, circulation, digestion, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature.

4. Water Can Help Control Calories. For years, dieters have been drinking lots of water as a weight loss strategy. 

5. Lower Stress With Water About 70% to 80% of your brain tissue is water. If you're dehydrated, your body and your mind are stressed.

6. Normal Bowel Movements require water. Water helps dissolve waste particles and passes them smoothly through your digestive tract.

7. Water Is The Fountain of Youth - “Natures Beauty Cream.” You’ll notice your fine lines and wrinkles are deeper when you're dehydrated.

8. Water Helps Your Reduces Kidney Stones. Water flushes out impurities and improves circulation and blood flow. Kidney stones can't form in diluted urine, so reduce your risk with plenty of water!

3 Tips to Help You Drink More

Here are some tips to help you increase your fluid intake and reap the benefits of water:

1. Drink 30 minutes before or after a meal, not with meals.

2. Eat more fruits and vegetables —20% of our fluid intake comes from foods. 

3. Use a 24-30 ounce bottle of water and keep refilling. Track your water in a journal (I offer a food, mood, poop, exercise accountability journal on my mobile app)

What is the best type of water to consume?

• Tap water, most readily available, may not always be the safest option. Some cities have very good purification systems, while others leave traces of cholination by-products, lead and sometimes bacteria. 
• Water filters can help to remove contaminants when environmental toxins pose a threat to water systems. 
• Distillation, a process consisting of boiling water, has also been found to remove impurities and toxins. 
• Bottled water has become a popular option for individuals without access to safe tap water; however, there are growing concerns about chemicals from the plastic seeping into the water, as well as the effects that the increasing number of bottles is having on the environment. 
• Water ionizers are gaining more recognition for their ability to create alkaline ionized water through electrolysis.

RECIPE TIME

Try These 6 Delicious Spa-infused Waters You Make Yourself

No need to run out and buy those expensive waters that taught to be so amazing. You can create gallons for a fraction of the cost with these ingredients.

Tangerine allows your body to process glucose more efficiently, instead of turning it into fat. 

Grapefruit boosts your metabolism, and their peels offer essential oils loaded with vitamin c and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Cucumber stimulates a feeling of fullness and satiation.

Mint aids the digestive process, allowing your body to eliminate waste more efficiently. 

Cranberry is a formidable diuretic and energy booster. 

Green Tea is an antioxidant, reduces the formation of free radicals in the body and protects cells and molecules from damage.