Thursday 28 April 2011

Let's talk about water for our skin and health.

Benefits of Drinking Water for Your Skin - We all want nice skin right?

The benefits of drinking water for skin - and body - are numerous. It's true! We've heard it many times before... drink lots of water. But will water really improve the appearance of your skin? While not everyone agrees, according to the experts the answer is a resounding yes!

We know this, we really do- so WHY do we not drink water? Do we not want nice skin? Honestly it puzzles me- and I hope this post will help motivate at least a few readers to fill up on some of that lovely clean liquid we have free access to.



I am personally going to make sure that water is a routine - just as brushing my teeth twice a day is.







Benefits of Water
Many people spend their days in a state of mild dehydration. Consuming far fewer fluids than they should. Water comprises approximately 60% of your body. It's basic for survival. 
If you're stranded on a deserted isle, find drinking water first. It seems so simple, yet it is such a chore for a lot of folk!








Drinking Water for Healthy Skin
Skin is intricately tied to the overall health of your body. When your body is properly hydrated, you'll look better and feel better.
Adequate water rewards you with...
  • Enhanced health
  • Increased energy
  • Bright, clear eyes
  • A radiant complexion
In addition, bloating and puffiness often disappear. How does this liquid work its magic? Behind the scenes, water...
  • Carries nutrients to every cell in your body
  • Flushes out nasty toxins
  • Improves circulation and blood flow
  • Lubricates your joints.
Water...how much to drink?Okay,  so I take it you’re in?. You're now convinced of the benefits of drinking water for your skin and your health. But drink 8 glasses of water per day? Yikes!! just seems so much right?
And- you may even need more...
If you are exercising, hot weather, and heated indoor air all cause your body to lose water. Increased water output requires increased water input.
Note: Illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding are special situations that demand greater fluid consumption.
Drinking too much water, however, may lead to a rare condition called hyponatremia. Marathon runners, the elderly, and people with certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure and cirrhosis, are most at risk. Check with your physician for recommendations.




Is water best?
Consuming lots of fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy skin will satisfy some of your body's fluid requirement. A bonus is they are loaded with anti-aging anti-oxidants!
Count milk, juice, and other healthy beverages as part of your daily total. Try diluting fruit juice with sparkling water for a tasty drink with fewer calories. Relax with a soothing cup of herbal tea. Just make sure that most of your daily fluid is pure, clear water.






How do you know if you're consuming enough water?
Answer these questions:
  • Is your thirst quenched?
  • Is your urine clear or pale yellow?
  • Do you feel good?
If so, then you're drinking enough. My personal indication? Lots of trips to the bathroom!


Realistic expectations...

There are numerous health benefits of drinking water. For your skin and your general well-being, water is critical. My complexion and my energy are happy when I pay attention to my fluid intake. I can sometimes look a bit grey and tired if I don't drink any water, and I certainly feel tired too!

There is no doubt that water is the ideal liquid refreshment. 


Reap the benefits of drinking water for your skin
You'll have a healthier body and a healthier you!


And that is my aim, going forward no more dehydrated me!! And no more dehydrated you!!


Here's a fun little tool to help you work out how much water you need per day


Drink More Water Calculator




And a few tips on helping us all along, I know I need tips - cos otherwise I forget!



  • Start the day with a cup of hot water with a good squeeze of fresh lemon. This will give your digestive system a real boost.
  • Instead of caffeine and alcohol, drink water. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics and cause the body to lose water.
  • Throughout the day have water constantly available; keep a water bottle on your desk so you can top up your glass throughout the day and carry a bottle of water with you when you are on the go.
  • Create a daily schedule; drink a glass after breakfast, one before lunch etc. You may want to track your water intake Try downloading this little "Drink More Water Screen Saver reminder" to ensure that you drink enough water! I think it's good, have downloaded it and saved in on my work PC.
  • If you are cold, drink warm water instead of coffee or tea which can dehydrate you.
  • Ask for a glass of water to go with your coffee and tea in Cafes.
  • Drink a glass of water before and during each meal.
  • Don’t forget to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables as these have a high water content and will contribute to your daily water intake.
And on that note, I am off to the kitchen to fill up my bottle :)

Do you drink enough water? Will you join me in my 2ltr a day life style?

Wednesday 27 April 2011

Time to get healthy!

Recently I have fallen into a trap of staying up very late - think 1am - 2am, then getting up at 6.30/7am, and either looking after the boys or going to work.
Then getting through the day on various caffeine infused drinks, and rubbish foods- I tend to eat bad foods if I am tired. And because I am tired everyday, I seem to not be able to drag myself out of this cycle!

It's all very well having all the best cosmetics in the world, that I can apply to the outside, but I need to be able to look after my insides, and my well being too, which is actually far more important- because I have a feeling if I carry on this way, on 5 hours sleep a night, inhaling caffeine to stay awake, and bad foods, well I won't be looking too hot in the very near future.


Already I have seen and felt some rather worrying signs from my body, that indicates things are not right, such as very frequent vertigo, I have several hours of dizzy spells most days, the fact that I can't sleep, I have a nasty rash all over my neck..
Also- other things I am going to do, to look after myself- I shall include here- but basically my aim with this page- is to make myself look and feel healthy inside and out!

2 years ago-just before I fell pregnant with my 2nd son, I was healthy, I worked out regularly, I slept enough, I even had abs to be very proud of.

2 years ago
Hello Flat Tummy- I'm coming to get you again!

I fell pregnant (second time), ate for five (oops), for 9 months, had Baby Noah and lost most of the weight, but have been stuck at least 1 stone heavier than my ideal, for months and months now, as I cannot get out of the rut I am in!


My aim is: 

To lose 1 stone- by eating healthily & sensibly
To always en corporate 2 litres of water into my day- no excuses.
To aim to get 8 hours sleep every night
To exercise at least 4 times a week 
To post a diary on here of my progress

I have this DVD and plan to use it 
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Davina's exercise DVDs are excellent all rounders for getting fit at home, I have her other DVDs and LOVE the variety of exercises on them! Also I like Davina, which really helps.

I am going to get a 2ltr bottle at home and one at work, and make sure that everyday I keep it out on a table, so throughout the course of the day, I will finish it.

I will keep a food diary and post it here, and maybe I can inspire someone?

Every Monday night I shall weigh in and update:)

I plan to post the post in my blog, and link them to this page, so all can easily be found in one place.

My journey starts here- so who's joining me?