Welcome back Amigos! I have a question for you, how much water do you and your kids ACTUALLY drink?  As a child, I primarily drank Tea, Kool-Aid and occasional Water.  I do remember adults occasionally stating the importance of water, but I didn’t take it seriously, nor did I understand how to make it a priority. Today, Nephrologists (Kidney Doctors), report that more than ever, there is a high demand for Pediatric Nephrologists (Kidney Doctor for Kids & Teens).  This is due to kids being diagnosed with PAINFUL Kidney & Urinary Stones, which are often caused by a lack of water and junk food! Today, kids & teens have so many drink choices, why should they drink boring old water?

• Every system in our body depends on water & helps youngsters thrive!
• Water helps the brain function & will help detox their kidneys, liver & other vital organs.
• Water carries nutrients to their cells & helps them digest food.
• Water provides a moist environment for their ears, nose & throat systems.
• Water is our primary chemical component & makes up 60% of weight.

How much water do kids & teens actually need?

General Guideline for Drinking Water:

Symptoms of Dehydration: 

• Dry Skin
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Dry Mouth
• Constipation
• Increased thirst
• Few or No Tears
• Decreased urine output.
• Urine is dark yellow instead of clear/light yellow.
• Feeling Tired & Drained even after sleeping well.

Hydrating Thoughts:

• Researchers have similar but varying ideas about water amount we should drink.
• Pay close attention to your child’s symptoms, activity level & climate you live in.
• Your child loses water by simply breathing, perspiring, urinating & pooping.
• Kids must replenish water by consuming foods & drinks that contain water.
• If severely dehydrated, provide real coconut water to replenish electrolytes.
• Speak with a health professional if dehydration symptoms persist.

8 Tips to Help Kids Drink More Water:

1. Always have clean & fresh tasting water on hand!
2. Infuse water with Organic Fruits, Veggies & Herbs!
3. Place a 16 oz water bottle by their night stand.
4. Have child drink 8 oz (1 cup) before sleeping.
5. Have child drink 16 oz (2 cups) upon awakening.
6. Have them drink 2 cups, 1 hour before each meal. (48 oz total)
7. Model behavior so your child will watch & learn.
8. Buy your child a sports bottle they can keep with them at all times (at school, during lunch, after recess)!

The chart above may seem like a lot of water, but it really isn’t.  Remember, 60% of your body is made of water, so it is critical that children’s water is replenished on a daily basis.

Can a child be drinking too much water?  It is possible for someone to drink too much water (hyponatremia), but it is very rare, and mostly happens to people who are extreme athletes.

The above chart is only a guideline, it is important you adjust your kid’s water consumption if you live in a very hot/humid climate, if they are athletes or have a medical condition. This Organic fruit & herb infused water recipe is a great way to always have great tasting water!

ORGANIC STRAWBERRY, LEMON, CUCUMBER, MINT INFUSION:

♥  ½ Cup Sliced Lemons

♥  ½ Cup Sliced Strawberries

♥  ¾ Medium Cucumber, Sliced

♥  ¼ Cup of Mint Leaves

♥  1 Quart of Fresh Spring Water

♥  USE ALL ORGANIC FOOD

Instructions:

♥  Prepare & Slice Fruits, Veggies, Herbs

♥  Place Your Mix at the Bottom of Jar

♥  Pour Your Water over the Mix

♥  Chill in your Fridge or Serve Room Temp.

♦  Optional: Use a wooden spoon to squash fruit at the bottom of jar before adding water.

Important Final Notes:

1. On average, food can provide about 20% of total water intake. Watermelon & Spinach are at least 90% water weight.
2. Pregnant or breast-feeding women need additional fluids to stay hydrated.
3. Pineapple, Orange, Ginger is another great infusion for the family.

This infusion is so Yummy Yummy and it’s so fun to make together with your family. Stay hydrated Amigos, I look forward to you visiting again!  Sending Love & Light! ~ Dr. Dee