No matter where you live, it’s a well-accepted fact that drinking lots of water is great for your health, both for your internal body systems and for the health and integrity of your skin. According to researchers at the Queens College of the City University of New York, children need between 5 and 8 cups of water a day, and it is generally recommended that adults consume 8-10 glasses of water on a daily basis. But, according to a September 2011 report by the Food Surveys Research Group of the USDA, the average daily intake of water is only 3.9 cups per individual over age 2. The report also states that the majority of plain drinking water is consumed at home. With safe drinking water readily accessible to most US residents, the question remains why Americans have such difficulty drinking the suggested amount of water each day.
Many individuals claim that it’s hard to drink enough water because it tastes too “plain”, or worse. The average adult has become accustomed to drinking coffee and other caffeinated beverages because they taste good and give them energy to go about their day, not realizing that these drinks actually dehydrate their bodies. This then creates the need for drinking even more water to make up for it. With their parents as less-than-perfect role models, today’s American children often follow suit and choose sugary, high-calorie beverages such soda or fruit juices, versus a nice tall glass of healthy drinking water.
If you’re serious about making a change in your own water intake or that of your children, it’s easy to start at home. First, make sure that you have a safe source of water. Get your tap water tested and if it comes back questionable or unsafe, consider having a water treatment system installed in your home. Even if your tap water is acceptable for drinking, a great way to encourage your youngsters to drink more is to make it “fun” by having your own water cooler right in the kitchen. Our water coolers look great and provide safe, great tasting water that is easily within reach of your children. Give your young child a cup and they can help themselves to plenty of healthy water all day long without needing the assistance of an adult. They will enjoy having their own self-serve water source and you can rest easy knowing that you’re helping to improve their health as well. While you’re watching the kids have fun, grab a glass yourself and fill ‘er up!
