Drink plenty of clean Memphis water for better health
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
It is easy to take clean water for granted in the Mid-South. Water is a precious Memphis asset. The water in most cities cannot compare to the plentiful, pure, good-tasting water supply in Memphis.
Memphis water comes from more than 80 wells that tap the Memphis Sands aquifer — a very deep treasure of pristine rainwater that filtered through layers and layers of sand that sifted out impurities over many centuries. Most regions get their water from lakes, rivers and streams. Many rural citizens get their water from shallow wells.
Memphis water quality consistently excels above federal EPA and Tennessee state requirements.
Public sanitation of water and clean water to wash hands and food have reduced illnesses caused by bacteria. Good water has reduced the incidence of typhoid and helicobacter pylori, which can cause colon inflammation and ulcers.
Like the dry house plant that perks up with water, our body’s functions can improve with adequate fluid intake. Water is essential to all living things — humans, pets and plants. Water makes up as much as 60 percent or more of our cells. A little loss of water can harm us. Dehydration can make you sluggish and contribute to problems like kidney stones.
Water is a vital part of our blood, carrying oxygen to every cell in our body. Water gets rid of waste through urine and feces. Our lymph system needs water to fight infections. Water lubricates our eyes, mouth, digestive system and joints. Fluids with lots of water surround unborn babies and our brains. Water helps maintain our body temperature. Water also hydrates our skin from the inside and the outside with the help of moisturizers to lock in water.
We absorb most of our water through beverages. Yet we can get plenty of water from fruits like a juicy peach, melon or apple, or from vegetables like celery, lettuce and tomatoes.
Working and exercising in the MidSouth heat can increase your water loss through heavy sweating and breathing.
Popular culture recommends eight glasses of water a day. You may need more or less depending on your activity, the heat, and your health. Keep in mind that you might need more water if you have a fever, diarrhea, are breast feeding or pregnant, or you have been sick with vomiting.
Beverage manufacturers are starting to make it easier for everyone to drink more healthfully by creating beverages with less sugar and smaller single-serving (8 ounce) bottles of sugary drinks.
Sadly, the lack of investment in some urban water systems is now putting some water infrastructures at risk.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Drink plain clean water often. It has zero calories. It is an essential nutrient. It is a great substitute for sugary drinks.
Drink a beverage with every meal and snack. Choose plain water and beverages with few or no calories.
If you long for drinks with flavor, there are plenty of ways to enhance water. Make a pitcher of unsweetened iced tea with lemon, lime or mint. Create flavored water with a touch of mint, cucumber, herbs or citrus. Brew a pot of hot tea or coffee. Milk and juice without added sugar are good too. Sports drinks can be OK if they don’t add to much sugar to your diet. Beware of “energy drinks,” which can be loaded with caffeine, sugar and stimulants.
Don’t forget your water bottle for work or exercise outdoors. Drink water before, during and after physical activity.
Don’t worry about too much water if you drink water with meals and when outdoors. Normal kidneys will get rid of excess water. If your urine is light yellow, you are getting rid of toxins, excess salt and water. If urine is dark yellow with a strong odor, you might need more fluids. Follow your doctor’s orders if you have been told to restrict fluids.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages to get more fluids. Alcohol is an anti-nutrient that depletes vitamins and minerals.
Look after older adults and children who might not sense thirst or get water when needed.
If you are constipated, consider drinking more fluids and eating watersoluble fiber foods like oatmeal and fruits. Water helps to maintain regular bowel function. Water might even reduce the risk of colon and urinary tract cancers.
Watch for signs of dehydration. Consider drinking more cool water if you have little or no urine; a dry, thirsty mouth, dry eyes, dark urine, fatigue even if you have slept, and if you feel overheated and lightheaded.
Don’t waste water. Water scarcity is a national and global problem. Use conservation aids like aerators and lowvolume faucets. Don’t forget to turn off your sprinkler. Wash full loads of clothes and dishes. Replace old toilets that use too much water. Don’t run the water when washing hands and shaving; fill the sink bowl instead and then rinse.
Create a disaster supply that includes a three-day supply of fresh, clean water for your family and pets. A flood or break in water lines can create an emergency that affects your water. Replace outdated water supplies.