"Water Matters"

By Ruth D. Antebi-Guten, PE, CHC, AADP,

Certified Holistic Health Coach

As Civil Engineers, we are aware of the approximately $11B annual shortfall in funds needed to replace aging water system infrastructure in our country. We are also cognizant of the expected population growth that will precipitate an increased demand for drinking water in the next 20 years.

However, how many of us are aware of the importance of drinking enough water. Getting our daily dose of water helps our organs perform their functions, keeps our skin clear and hydrated, and allows physical action in our bodies to flow smoothly. Even with this knowledge, it can still be challenging to drink all the water our bodies thirst for daily. Drinking plenty of water is critical. Those who are not drinking enough may experience poor digestion, sluggish thinking, skin breakouts, headaches, bad breath and general fatigue.

To start your day right, set a large glass of water by your bed each night and drink it when you wake up. Drinking water first thing in the morning pulls out toxins from the previous day and freshens your system for the day ahead. Keep a bottle of water accessible throughout the day, whether you are on the go or at a desk. Having a bottle of water close by will remind you to take a sip when thirsty. The first sip will usually let you know how much more water you need. A sip or two may be enough, or you may need a big glass. If you drink most of your daily water before early evening, you most likely will not be thirsty before bed. This is good, because drinking before bed and then waking to use the bathroom disturbs your peaceful night's sleep.

Also, drinking tea or juice and eating raw fruits and vegetables, in addition to your daily water intake, contributes to the hydration process. When you reach for your hard hat to go out on a site inspection, automatically reach for your bottle of water. Drink up!

Ruthie has over twenty-five years experience in Public Works and Engineering. She retired from her career as Public Works Director for the City of Cedar Hill in 2010 to pursue her passion for healthy living and to promote a sustainable vision for North Texas that supports healthy community initiatives within the Region. Ruthie is available to present “Vision North Texas - Understanding Our Options for Growth” to your organization on behalf of Vision North Texas. For more information, please contact Ruthie Guten at [email protected] or (214) 476-2989, or see www.ruthieguten.com.