How much water do you drink during the day? A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly half of Americans — or 43 percent — aren’t getting enough water every day, though what constitutes “enough” may be different for everyone. (The Institute of Medicine determined that men need about 13 cups of total beverages a day, while women need roughly nine; age, level of activity, health level, and where a person lives are all factors.)

So although a “magic” recommended amount varies, the evidence of the positive health benefits of staying hydrated continues to mount. Here are seven reasons to get up and pour yourself a glass of h2O right now.

• It gives you an energy boost. Drinking water wards off dehydration – a main sign of which is drowsiness or sleepiness. 
• It can make you perform better at work. One study found that drinking water may boost mental performance, with students who brought water into the classroom scoring better on a test than those who didn’t.
• It helps control your appetite, with water intake as a replacement for sugar-sweetened beverages associated with eating less and maintaining a healthy weight.
• It brightens your skin. Staying hydrated helps your body flush away toxins and helps skin cells stay plump and full, which means that your skin will look firmer and clearer. 
• It can help loosen congestion, especially when compared with alcohol, coffee, or soda, which can make your cold or allergies feel worse. 
• It keeps things moving. Drinking water helps the body absorb fiber, which aids in digestion, and it’s also proven to help combat constipation.
• It will put you in a better mood. Feeling cranky? Dehydration has been shown to negatively impact mood, so chugging a glass of water can help ward off grumpiness.

How do you remember to drink more water throughout the day? Share your tips in the comments section here.