Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee, My two kids, ages 6 and 9, drink lots of milk, but very little water. My sister is a water drinker, and thinks that I should force my kids to drink water. Is drinking water important for children? Signed, Wondering Dear Wondering, Drinking plenty of water is important for everyone. It would be a good idea to get your children into the habit of drinking water. According to Water UK (www.water.org.uk), besides maintaining a healthy level of hydration, drinking water also helps weight control, mental performance, and increases energy. In addition, a study by Michaud, et. al. in the New England Journal of Medicine (www.nejm.org) concluded that, "A high fluid intake is associated with a decreased risk of bladder cancer in men." Here are some tips for proper hydration: 1. Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day, more if you're exercising. 2. Drink water throughout the day. Don't wait until you feel thirsty. 3. Have water handy, carry a water bottle in the car or at the office. 4. Beverages such as coffee, tea, sodas, or alcohol are not a substitute for water. 5. If you have a hard time remembering to drink water, then establish a routine, drink a glass when you get up. Drink a glass before a meal and after each meal. If you do not have nocturia (getting up frequently at night to urinate), then drink a glass before bed. |
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| Diet and Nutrition: Food and Drink for Health |