Water and pH

Q. I have recently read that your pH balance is very important. I understand that drinking distilled water leaches important things out of your body and that it is healthiest to consume alkalized water and use acidic water on the outside of the body (skin and hair). I usually drink a cup of warm water with apple cider vinegar and honey in the morning. I find it keeps my heels smoother and helps with arthritic conditions as well as keeping my teeth feeling good. Now I am really confused because I read that any vinegar is like a poison in the body and that it is entirely too acidic to be consumed.

A. There is NO evidence to support any information regarding this pH balance dilemma. Vinegar is not a harmful food subtance. The most important thing is to stay well hydrated with whatever type of water you choose.

Water is the one nutrient without which humans cannot live. It takes only a few days without water to lead to death of your cells. Water acts as a carrier to transport nutrients and oxygen, help maintain the lymphatic system, remove wastes, and regulate body temperature.

In order to figure out how much water you need, divide your weight by 1/2 -- that is the number of ounces you need to drink each day. Don't substitute caffeinated drinks such as cola or tea, since they actually dehydrate you. Many people who get a "hungry" feeling are actually not hungry but instead are thirsty. But don't wait to feel thirsty to drink, since by that time you are already slightly dehydrated.

So you can keep your apple cider vinegar/honey combination in the morning, but get at least 8 full glasses of any type of water through the rest of the day.