Drink for FREE!

Did I get you with my deceptive title?

"Free drinks" sounds like a happy hour special. But I'm not giving away alcoholic beverages. No, I'm promoting a different free drink.

Water!

Here is where everyone groans.

I will never understand those who say they can't stand water. Human beings, let alone all forms of life, could not exist on this planet if it were not for water. Water is what gives us life!

Inside your local grocery store, there is an entire aisle devoted just to water. You can purchase every flavor of water under the sun: mandarin orange, mango, cherry, berry, bing bong. (I made that last one up just to see if you were awake.) We now have water infused with electrolytes, vitamins, herbs, spices, minerals, animals, and vegetables. (Some of those might not be true...) If you want to pay a lot of money for super special water, someone will definitely make it for you! Read those labels carefully because your fancy water might contain something you don't want: sugar, artificial sweeteners, calories, carbs, etc.

Keep in mind: regular tap water will do the trick.

Are you trying to lose weight? Then water is your best friend. Not only does it cost almost nothing, it is also devoid of calories. Water can help fill up your empty belly, reducing hunger and encouraging you to eat less. I recommend drinking a large glass of water about 30 minutes before each meal.

Are you training for a sport or athletic event? Water hydrates your muscles and joints, keeping everything moving more smoothly. Even slight dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, reduced performance, and greater chance of injury.

Dehydration can also bring on headaches, joint pain, constipation, and heart problems. Drinking enough water keeps the blood flowing more smoothly through the veins and arteries, as well as moving everything through the digestive system more efficiently.

Dehydration can be caused by the weather, exercise, alcohol, caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea, medications, and just not drinking enough H2O! Don't let this happen to you. Whether you need designer water made by and for celebrities or plain old tap water, make sure you drink up.