Eight glasses a day...no doubt you've heard it from everybody - your parents, your doctor, talk show professionals. The road to wellness is actually a river of pure, clean water, and while to drink sixty-four ounces daily seems like an impossible task, it is actually one of the simplest steps you can take to starting a sound weight loss program. After all, our bodies are approximately sixty percent water, so it is only natural that we constantly replenish ourselves in order to feel good.

Water has no fat - as opposed to thick milkshakes

Water has no calories - as opposed to iced tea

Water has no sugar - as opposed to soft drinks

Water has no caffeine - as opposed to coffee

Think about how many times a day you eat or have a snack. How often do you have a drink to accompany your meals? How often do you default to the combo meal that comes with a soft drink? Sure, you can order a diet drink and not contend with calories or fat, but consider the sugars (or sugar substitutes) and other ingredients that may countereffect your dieting program. By replacing each drink with a glass of water, not only are you closer to your daily allowance but you greatly increase the chances of a healthier you!

Water energizes - As you engage in a strenuous workout, you need fluids to replace what you lose. Many may suggest sports drinks with electrolytes, but these same drinks may have sugar, which may countereffect your exercise. Drinking water as you exercise can keep you energized to complete your workout.

Water refreshes - On a hot day, nothing cools down the body like a glass of ice water. Of course, it doesn't have to be a hundred degrees for water consumption to be necessary. Drink a glass or two between meals for a continued good feeling.

Water cleanses - Did you know that the more water you drink, the better for your kidneys? Yes, you might imagine that drinking water you need to urinate more, but this is actually a good thing. Water breaks down calcium that can form into kidney stones, so the more you drink the less chance you will have of getting them.

You may notice, too, that your urine becomes a lighter color when you drink more water in a day. This is a good sign, it means you are keeping your kidneys healthy. Ideally, you want to be sure your urine is as clear as possible.

So have a drink for your good health!