Water and the Athlete

All About Water

Water is what we are made of. Athletic people in particular are placing more demand on their body's water supply to regulate temperature during exercise, provide nutrients to the muscles for recovery and growth, and remove unwanted toxins from the body. Here are some reasons why water is so vital and my number 1 choice for pre, during, and post workout consumption!!!

Water. The stuff of life. About 70% of the earth is covered in it, the same as the amount found in your body. Water is needed for every single metabolic process, including protein synthesis. So if your training intensity is high, one of the simplest things you can do for your body is to drink more water.

Water flushes out toxins and other metabolic waste products from the body. Water is especially important when following a "high protein" diet, as it helps remove excess nitrogen, urea (a toxic substance), and ketones. If you're eating big to gain weight, then you need even more water to help your kidneys do their work.

Without enough water, the kidneys can't function properly. When this happens, some of the load is transferred to the liver. The liver metabolizes stored fat for energy. If the liver is doing some of the kidneys' work, it burns less fat. In addition, water can actually reduce feelings of hunger. Contrary to popular belief, drinking water can actually help you shed excess water weight. When water is in short supply, the body, thinking there's a shortage, begins hoarding it. This water is stored in extra cellular spaces. In other words, your skin starts looking soft and puffy.

Supplements like creatine work in part because it pulls water in to the muscle cells, thereby creating an anabolic environment needed for growth. For this to work properly, you need plenty of water. Plus, if you're training hard, then you need a basic multi-vitamin. Many vitamins are water soluble, and water unlocks the power of those vitamins.

I have worked as a chef for a number of years, and the hot environment of the kitchen forced me to train myself to drink water ALL DAY! It is not as easy as it sounds, and takes some getting used too, but the benefits on all round health and performance are second to none. You can check your hydration levels when you urinate. If your urine is dark yellow or has a strong smell then you are likely dehydrated!! If you have adequate water supply, your urine will appear clean, clear and odour free!!

Now you have no excuses, put down the coca cola and pick up the evian!