A feature on the Examiner.com features a reminder from a guest examiner who was identified as a former Navy SEAL, Marcus Colburn. The article begins by reminding people that our body is composed mainly of water, in very much the same way that this planet Earth that we live in is basically surrounded by water. If at any point during the day, as we perform our everyday tasks, we feel a sensation called thirst, then it only means one thing — you are dehydrated. Your body is craving for the water that basically composes it, and you have to do the only thing that will make that sensation go away — drink.

But what is it exactly that you should drink? An analogy with bodybuilders and weightlifters was shared in the article, giving as an example what was termed as the “creatine fix”. Apparently, there are bodybuilders who have been weightlifting in a dehydrated state. Taking creatine reportedly calls for drinking 10 glasses of water each day; when they do, they discover that they can lift longer and heavier weights, and they immediately credit their improvement to creatine. True? Not exactly. They may be doing better because they are drinking water when they should and are not dehydrated.

The article ends with a reminder. As we try to sail through the summer heat, do not forget to drink water, and lots of it. Go for plain old water instead of other drinks! The article shares an experience during BUD/S, where trainees undoubtedly engage in various activities that may necessitate travel and carrying heavy loads. Those who choose to lay low on the water stash and then complain later on when they did not bring enough are chided, especially since they are reminded that they should bring enough water: “Are you thirsty? Dude, if you didn’t bring it, you must not need it.”

So the moral of the story? Water is definitely important to our lives. Especially since it’s summer, make sure you are hydrated enough. Drink enough water and stay healthy and strong!