Every system in your body depends on water. Water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues. It also provides moisture for our eyes. Did you know that without this, we would go blind?

Most of us are into natural. Organic. Healthy. Water is the place to start. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired. Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply.

There are a few factors that influence your water requirements. One, of course, would be exercise. As you sweat, your body loses water that is vital in your body working correctly. You need to be extremely careful when exercising on hot days. Your best bet is to exercise early in the morning or in the evening when it has cooled down.

Remember that illness can also cause dehydration. Illnesses that include fever, vomiting or diarrhea, cause your body to lose additional fluids. Also, you may need increased fluid intake if you develop certain conditions, including bladder infections or gall stones. Our bodies (like the earth) is made up of 2/3 water. It is vitally important to re-hydrate often.

Pretty much everyone by now has heard the rule: eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. It’s not necessarily a wives tale! It’s just a common sense rule. Note that this approach isn't supported by scientific evidence. At the very least, set a goal of how much water you feel you need to consume per day…and then stick to it. Also, for those of you on diets, it is especially important. It will help to replace fluids that you may not be getting from foods. If you are drinking a good amount per day, it will also make you feel more full, and therefore, you will naturally eat less. Do remember that you can not live just on water! You need food to balance your nutrition (equally important for your body to function correctly!). You can drink too much water, and this is not healthy.

As in life, a balance is necessary.