It's calorie-free, inexpensive and easily obtained - yet few people follow the old fashioned advice to drink eight glasses of water a day.

Most people drink when they are thirsty, but usually not enough and certainly not when trying to lose weight.

On average we drink two or three glasses of plain water a day, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture survey and the total fluid intake by adults is said to total about two quarts of water a day including water from foods and other beverages.

Drinking fluids, particularly, water, during exercise reduces cardiovascular stress and improves performance. After a strenuous workout, you have to replace the fluids you have lost. Otherwise, you will suffer chronic dehydration. Drink water before, during and after exercising, and remember that water reduces body temperature thus making the whole exercise process safer. It can help you exercise longer and more efficiently and this alone would be enough to help you lose weight but water does more