Signal Slimming

A balanced diet is central to overall good health and wellbeing. But which are the best foods to include in your meals, and which ones are best avoided?

We need six nutrients to function properly: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins and water. Approximately 68% of the body is comprised of water and a constant supply is required as all bodily functions depend on the balance of body water. The human physiology needs water for heart function, regulation of body temperature, blood pressure, metabolic functions of all cells and lubrication of the joints. Fluids are needed in the blood to transport glucose to the working muscles and eliminate metabolic bi-products. Muscle tissue alone is over 70% water. Vital functions of the body are seriously compromised when an individual is dehydrated.

Dehydration is defined as the loss of fluid from all of the body's fluid compartments. It occurs when the rate of fluid lost is greater than the rate of fluid replaced. Loss is at its greatest during physical activity, especially in hot weather. Without adequate fluid intake, a progressive increase in core temperature causes early muscle fatigue and the risk of heat exhaustion. Symptoms of dehydration can range from a mild headache, sluggishness to even more serious complications like collapse and unconsciousness.

Sometimes our lack of water can be mistaken for hunger. You need to be able to identify which is which. Your organs if hydrated properly will function to their full potential, in the case of your liver burning fat.

Remember that soft drinks and alcohol have no nutritional value whatsoever, except to provide around 150+ calories of refined sugar! This sugar may temporarily refuel the muscles with carbohydrates, but the natural sugars in fruit juices perform the same task and also replace the potassium lost in sweat. Juices with Vitamin C, a healing and antioxidant nutrient, will promote more efficient post exercise recovery and reduce muscle soreness. Sports drinks are good during a long workout because their low carbohydrate levels are easier to absorb. After exercise slightly diluted juice or water are your best choices. Note also that alcohol is a diuretic, causing more water loss and greater dehydration.

Hydration is vital and everybody engaging in exercise, at all levels and intensities, should work to increase their water intake. You will be very surprised at how much better you will feel and perform just by drinking more water.