Summer and water may possibly be the best pairing… ever, in a world. This dynamically wet duo brings us so much – amusement, refreshment, relaxation, fitness, health, vigor, awe, enjoyment, escape, energy, life, food and more. It can also be a threat to our health if we don’t treat it right. But like all things we are throwing your way this summer – it’s actually quite simple to keep it fun and healthy…

The fountain of prevention 

Drink it in. Drinking enough water is essential for good health. In addition to flushing toxins out of your vital organs and carrying nutrients to where they’re needed, water keeps you energized. “Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired” (Mayo Clinic).

How much?  Men:  3 liters & Women: 2.2 liters. These #’s are just averages, and the actual amount you need varies by each person and depends on several factors: exercise level, climate, health, etc. (Mayo Clinic)

Studies show that as much as 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. No big deal, if you don’t mind: premature aging, fatigue, constipation, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, digestive disorders, skin disorders… (water benefits health)

Filter out carcinogens. “A new report from the President’s Cancer Panel on how to reduce exposure to carcinogens suggests that home-filtered tap water is a safer bet than bottled water, whose quality often is not higher — and in some cases is worse — than that of municipal sources, according to a study by the Environmental Working Group.” (www.prevention .com)

Water smart!

Take it with you! It wouldn’t be too difficult to reach your target water intake if you always had it with you. A simple water bottle can be one of the best purchases you can make for your health.

Purchase responsibly. Putting a little extra thought into your purchase can make a big impact on your health and the environment. We’ll avoid the opportunity to dwell on the socially irresponsible details of plastic bottles (like Dasani), and instead point you in the direction of some smarter choices:

Best option for on the go. A stainless steel bottle with built in filter from WaterGeeks. For only $17: Water on the go, no cancer causing BPA’s, and a built in filter… pretty close to perfect.  (+ support and organization with a pretty cool mission)

Best eco-friendly option. The Brushed Stainless Steel, Klean Kanteen 27oz Reflect & Bamboo Cap water bottle is an excellent eco-friendly alternative.

At home. Consumer Reports’ top picks for faucet-mounted filters: Culligan, Pur Vertical, and the Brita OPFF-100.