Stay Hydrated to stay healthy Published March 5, 2010 By Maya Kelp 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Swimming pools, lakes, kids running through the sprinkler - What do all of these things have in common? Water! I know when I think of water I associate it with fun, but have you ever really thought about the role it plays when it comes to your overall health and well being? Let's look at water in a different light for a minute, the light of your health. The average person should intake eight glasses of water in one day. However average is not accurate. A recent medical study took the blood from two test subjects one was dehydrated and the other was hydrated. The hydrated blood was thinner and able to flow throughout the body with ease. The hydrated blood flow increased brain function, was easier on the heart, and assisted with lubrication on the joints. While the dehydrated blood sample proved to be thicker, taxing on the heart, resulted in lower energy and slower functioning levels. Water intake has an effect and influence on our entire body and well-being. With the new PT requirements, Bloomsday, and the Fairchild Fun Run, water is going to play a vital role in how each person performs in these events. Staying hydrated means staying healthy and healthy hydration is a choice. Let's remember to stay healthy, stay involved, and most importantly stay hydrated. Hope to see you drinking a glass of water.