How to Drink Water Correctly for Weight Loss: Your Essential Hydration Guide
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a weight loss journey, meticulously tracking your meals and hitting the gym, yet still feeling like something fundamental is missing? It’s a common experience, and often, the answer lies in one of the simplest, yet most overlooked, elements of our daily lives: water. Far from being just a thirst quencher, water is a powerful, multifaceted ally in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Its role in the intricate processes of our body extends far beyond mere hydration, influencing everything from our metabolism to our appetite and even our energy levels.
At TrimRx, our journey began with a shared vision to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles. We saw a need to merge cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective, medically supervised weight loss solutions. Our platform is designed to be a user-friendly and supportive space, providing personalized care that makes sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to your unique needs. We firmly believe that sustainable weight loss should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach, and proper hydration is a cornerstone of this philosophy.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the profound ways that understanding how to drink water correctly for weight loss can transform your efforts. We’ll explore the science behind water’s impact on your body, dispel common myths, and provide practical, actionable strategies to optimize your hydration for maximum benefit. From boosting your metabolism to curbing cravings and enhancing your physical performance, we’ll uncover how strategic water intake can become a pivotal part of your personalized weight loss strategy. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of not just why, but precisely how to leverage water as a powerful tool on your path to a healthier you.
The Foundational Role of Water in Weight Management
Water is the unsung hero of countless bodily functions, and its importance is amplified when you’re focused on weight loss. It’s a vital component that facilitates processes essential for shedding excess weight and supporting overall health. Understanding these mechanisms reveals why adequate hydration is not just recommended, but truly indispensable.
Beyond Thirst: Water’s Impact on Metabolism
Many people are surprised to learn that water can actively contribute to a more efficient metabolism. Our metabolism is the process by which our body converts what we eat and drink into energy. A higher metabolic rate means your body burns calories faster, even at rest, which is crucial for weight loss. Studies, including those from the National Institute of Health, have shown that drinking a modest amount of water, such as 500 ml, can temporarily increase your metabolic rate by up to 30% for approximately an hour. This phenomenon, known as water-induced thermogenesis, suggests that your body expends energy to warm ingested water to body temperature. While the calorie burn from this effect alone might seem minimal on a daily basis, consistent hydration throughout the day can lead to a sustained, albeit small, increase in overall energy expenditure.
Furthermore, water consumption is associated with increased sympathetic activity. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for regulating various involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate and metabolism. By activating this system, water may help to slightly elevate your metabolic rate and the amount of energy (or calories) your body burns. This subtle yet continuous boost can contribute positively to your long-term weight management goals.
Satiety Signals: How Water Can Help Control Appetite
One of the most practical and immediate benefits of strategic water intake for weight loss is its ability to help manage appetite and reduce overall food consumption. The feeling of hunger is complex, and sometimes our bodies can confuse thirst signals with hunger cues. This misinterpretation can lead to unnecessary snacking or overeating when a glass of water might have been all that was truly needed.
Drinking water before meals is a widely recognized strategy. When you consume water, it takes up space in your stomach, creating a temporary feeling of fullness or satiety. This can significantly reduce the amount of food you consume during a meal. Research supports this, with some studies indicating that individuals who drank water before meals tended to eat less. One particular study highlighted that people who incorporated water prior to meals lost 44% more weight over 12 weeks compared to those who did not. This demonstrates how a simple habit can have a tangible impact on your caloric intake. For an individual aiming to reduce their calorie consumption without feeling deprived, incorporating water strategically before meals can be a powerful, non-caloric aid to feeling satisfied.
Detoxification and Nutrient Transport
Water plays a pivotal role in your body’s natural detoxification processes. It acts as a solvent, helping your kidneys filter waste products and toxins from your blood, which are then expelled through urine. These toxins, if allowed to accumulate, can potentially hinder weight loss efforts by negatively impacting metabolic function and contributing to inflammation. By ensuring adequate hydration, you empower your body to efficiently remove waste and support a healthier internal environment conducive to weight loss.
Beyond waste removal, water is essential for transporting nutrients to your cells. It helps dissolve vitamins, minerals, and glucose, making them accessible to your body’s tissues. This efficient nutrient delivery is critical for energy production, muscle function, and overall cellular health, all of which are interconnected with effective weight management. When your body is properly hydrated, every cell functions optimally, supporting energy levels and metabolic processes vital for sustained weight loss.
Fueling Your Workouts: Hydration and Exercise Performance
If exercise is part of your weight loss strategy – and for most, it is an important component – staying adequately hydrated is non-negotiable. Dehydration, even mild, can significantly impair physical performance. Symptoms like fatigue, muscle cramps, and decreased endurance can make it harder to stick to your workout routine, reduce the intensity of your exercise, and ultimately limit the calories you burn.
When you’re well-hydrated, your body can regulate its temperature more effectively, muscles can function at their best, and joints remain lubricated. This allows you to perform longer and at a higher intensity, leading to more effective calorie burning and improved fat metabolism. For an individual engaging in regular physical activity, optimizing water intake ensures that their body is primed for peak performance, maximizing the benefits of every workout session and accelerating progress toward weight loss goals.
Replacing Caloric Beverages: A Simple Yet Powerful Change
Perhaps one of the most direct and impactful ways water aids weight loss is by serving as a calorie-free alternative to sugary drinks. Sodas, sweetened juices, energy drinks, and even many specialty coffee beverages are often laden with empty calories and added sugars, contributing significantly to daily caloric intake without providing substantial nutritional value or satiety. In fact, sweetened beverages are consistently cited as a leading source of added sugar in many diets.
By consistently choosing water over these high-calorie options, you can dramatically reduce your overall calorie and sugar consumption. This simple substitution can have a profound effect on your weight loss journey over time. Consider the cumulative effect: replacing just one 150-calorie sugary drink a day with water could save you over 1,000 calories a week, translating into significant weight loss over months. This straightforward change requires no restrictive dieting or complex meal planning, highlighting water’s accessibility as a weight loss tool.
At TrimRx, we understand that building sustainable habits is key. Our approach emphasizes making informed, easy-to-implement choices that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you’re leveraging our personalized weight loss programs, which you can explore by taking our free assessment quiz, or incorporating our GLP-1 Daily Support and Weight Loss Boost supplements, integrating sufficient water intake is a foundational step toward a healthier you.
Determining Your Optimal Water Intake for Weight Loss
While the benefits of water for weight loss are clear, a common question arises: “How much water should I actually be drinking?” The answer isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula, as individual needs can vary significantly. However, understanding general guidelines and factors that influence your hydration requirements can help you tailor an effective strategy.
Individual Needs and the ‘8×8 Rule’
For years, the “8×8 rule” has been a popular general guideline, suggesting the consumption of eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, totaling about two liters or half a gallon. While this is a helpful starting point, it’s essential to recognize that this is a broad recommendation. Your actual water requirements depend on a dynamic interplay of factors unique to you.
For individuals specifically focused on weight loss, some experts suggest increasing water intake beyond this general guideline, potentially adding an additional one and a half liters per day, especially if regular exercise is part of the routine. The aim is to ensure your body has ample resources to support the increased metabolic activity and physical demands associated with a weight loss journey.
Factors Influencing Your Daily Water Requirements
Your personal water needs are influenced by several key factors:
- Age and Gender: Generally, adult men tend to have higher water requirements than adult women due to differences in body composition and metabolic rates. Older adults may also need to be more conscious of their water intake, as the sensation of thirst can diminish with age.
- Weight and Body Composition: Larger individuals, or those with a higher muscle mass, typically require more water to maintain hydration and support cellular functions.
- Activity Level: If you lead an active lifestyle or engage in regular, intense exercise, your body loses more fluids through sweat. Consequently, you’ll need to replenish these fluids by drinking more water. Athletes, for example, often have significantly higher hydration needs.
- Climate and Environment: Living in hot or humid climates, or at high altitudes, increases fluid loss through perspiration and respiration, necessitating a higher water intake.
- Health Status: Certain medical conditions, such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or kidney diseases, can impact your body’s fluid balance and require adjusted water consumption. Additionally, nursing parents have increased fluid needs to support milk production.
- Diet: The foods you eat contribute to your fluid intake. Consuming a diet rich in water-dense fruits and vegetables (like watermelon, cucumber, lettuce, and celery) can supplement your water intake, while a diet high in sodium might increase your thirst and water needs.
It’s also important to remember that water isn’t solely derived from plain drinking water. Many beverages, including coffee, tea, and milk, contain water. Moreover, a significant portion of your daily fluid intake comes from solid foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.
Listening to Your Body: Signs of Adequate Hydration
The most reliable indicator of your hydration status is often your body itself. A good rule of thumb is to drink water when you feel thirsty and continue until your thirst is quenched. Beyond thirst, several other signs can help you gauge if you’re adequately hydrated:
- Urine Color: Light yellow or straw-colored urine typically indicates good hydration. Darker yellow or amber urine can be a sign of dehydration.
- Frequency of Urination: You should be urinating several times throughout the day. Infrequent urination could suggest insufficient fluid intake.
- Energy Levels: Persistent fatigue, dizziness, or headaches can sometimes be symptoms of dehydration.
- Skin Elasticity: Healthy, well-hydrated skin tends to be more elastic.
- Oral Dryness: A dry mouth is a clear signal that your body needs fluids.
We encourage a compassionate and personalized approach to understanding your body’s signals. If you’re unsure about your specific hydration needs or how to integrate them into a broader weight loss plan, our medically supervised programs offer expert guidance. Take our free assessment quiz to discover a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique requirements.
Practical Strategies for Consistent Hydration
Knowing how much water to drink is one thing; consistently drinking it is another. Many individuals find it challenging to maintain adequate hydration throughout the day. However, with a few practical strategies, you can effortlessly integrate more water into your daily routine, making hydration a natural and enjoyable part of your weight loss journey.
Making Water Appealing: Flavor and Presentation
For those who find plain water unexciting, adding natural flavors can make a significant difference without introducing extra calories or artificial ingredients.
- Infused Water: Create refreshing infused water by adding slices of fruits, vegetables, or fresh herbs to a pitcher of water. Popular combinations include lemon and lime, cucumber and mint, strawberry and basil, or even apple and cinnamon sticks. Allow the ingredients to steep for at least two hours (or overnight in the refrigerator) for the flavors to fully develop.
- Sparkling Water: For a fizzy alternative, opt for unsweetened seltzer water or club soda. You can add a splash of 100% fruit juice (like pomegranate or black raspberry) for a low-calorie spritzer that satisfies cravings for carbonated drinks.
- Herbal Teas: Decaffeinated herbal teas are an excellent way to add variety and warmth. They are just as hydrating as plain water but offer a spectrum of flavors. Enjoy them hot or iced throughout the day.
These simple enhancements can transform water from a mundane necessity into a delightful beverage, encouraging more frequent consumption.
Integrating Water Into Your Daily Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to hydration. Developing a routine can help you ensure you’re drinking enough water without constantly thinking about it.
- Start Your Day Hydrated: Begin each morning with a glass of water right after waking up. This rehydrates your body after hours of sleep and kick-starts your metabolism.
- Scheduled Sips: Make it a habit to drink a glass of water before every meal and snack. This not only boosts your hydration but also leverages water’s appetite-suppressing effects.
- Carry a Water Bottle: Invest in a reusable water bottle that you enjoy using and carry it with you everywhere – to work, while running errands, or to the gym. Seeing your bottle acts as a constant visual reminder to drink.
- Set Reminders: In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget. Use your smartphone to set hourly reminders or download a water-tracking app to log your intake and prompt you to drink.
- Drink During Activities: Make a point to drink water during specific activities, such as while working, commuting, or watching television.
For those engaging with our personalized weight loss programs, which might include medications like [Compounded Semaglutide], [Oral Semaglutide], [Ozempic®], [Compounded Tirzepatide], [Oral Tirzepatide], [Mounjaro®], [Zepbound®], or [Wegovy®], maintaining consistent hydration is particularly important for overall well-being and medication efficacy. These medications are provided through FDA-registered, inspected, and approved pharmacies, and we ensure transparent service and compassionate care throughout your journey.
The Role of Water-Rich Foods
Remember that your fluid intake isn’t limited to beverages. Many fruits and vegetables boast a high water content, contributing significantly to your daily hydration goals. Incorporating these foods into your diet is a delicious way to boost both your fluid and nutrient intake.
- Fruits: Watermelon (91% water), strawberries (91% water), grapefruit (90% water), cantaloupe (90% water), and peaches (89% water) are excellent choices for snacks or dessert.
- Vegetables: Cucumber (96% water), lettuce (96% water), celery (95% water), bell peppers (92% water), spinach (91% water), and broccoli (nearly 90% water) can be added to salads, stir-fries, or enjoyed raw with healthy dips.
- Soups and Yogurt: Starting a meal with a broth-based soup can add fluids and promote satiety. Low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt (about 85% water) also contribute to hydration while providing essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
By combining mindful drinking habits with a diet rich in water-dense foods, you create a robust strategy for consistent hydration that supports your weight loss efforts. Our quick-access supplements like GLP-1 Daily Support and Weight Loss Boost can also complement these dietary changes, providing additional support for your metabolic health.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Water and Weight Loss
While water is undeniably beneficial for weight loss and overall health, several myths and misconceptions persist. Dispelling these can help ensure your hydration strategy is effective, safe, and realistic.
Cold Water vs. Warm Water: The Calorie Myth
A common belief is that drinking cold water burns more calories because your body has to expend energy to warm it to body temperature. While it’s true that your body does use energy for this process, the actual number of calories burned is minimal. One older study indicated that cooled water might result in a negligible increase of about 23 calories burned daily. This amount is too small to be a significant factor in weight loss.
Conversely, a more recent 2023 study found that individuals who drank 200–250 milliliters of warm water after each meal experienced more weight loss and a lower BMI than a control group. This suggests that the temperature of water might have other subtle effects, but neither cold nor warm water is a magic bullet for calorie burning alone. The primary benefits of water for weight loss stem from its appetite suppression, metabolic support, and as a calorie-free beverage replacement, rather than a significant thermogenic effect based on temperature. Focus on drinking water at a temperature you enjoy, as consistency is far more important than the temperature itself.
The Dangers of Excessive Water Intake
While increasing your water intake is beneficial, it is possible to drink too much water. This rare but serious condition is known as water intoxication or hyponatremia, where the balance of electrolytes (particularly sodium) in your body becomes dangerously diluted. Symptoms can range from nausea and headaches to more severe complications like brain swelling and seizures, and in extreme cases, it can be life-threatening.
This typically occurs when an individual consumes an excessive amount of water in a short period, overwhelming the kidneys’ ability to excrete it, or in individuals with certain underlying health conditions. To avoid this, it’s crucial to listen to your body’s signals and maintain a balanced water intake. Drink when you’re thirsty, monitor your urine color, and avoid forcing yourself to drink large quantities beyond what feels comfortable. For instance, attempting a “water fast” without medical supervision, where only water is consumed for several days, is strongly discouraged by healthcare professionals due to the significant risks of electrolyte imbalance and other serious complications. Any weight lost during such a fast is also predominantly water weight, which is quickly regained.
Our commitment at TrimRx is always to safety and medically sound approaches. We emphasize that all health strategies, including hydration, should be balanced and in alignment with your body’s natural needs.
Water as a Standalone Solution: A Realistic Perspective
Perhaps the most pervasive myth is that water alone can lead to significant weight loss. While water is an essential and powerful tool, it is not a “magic solution.” Successful and sustainable weight loss is a multifaceted journey that requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing a healthy, balanced diet, regular physical activity, and positive lifestyle changes.
Water should be viewed as a complementary tool that enhances the effectiveness of other weight loss strategies. It supports your body’s functions, aids in appetite control, and offers a calorie-free alternative to sugary drinks, but it cannot compensate for an unhealthy diet or a sedentary lifestyle. For an individual seeking substantial and lasting weight loss, integrating strategic hydration into a holistic plan that includes nutritional adjustments and consistent movement is key.
Our philosophy at TrimRx aligns perfectly with this realistic perspective. We understand that each individual’s journey is unique, which is why we offer personalized, medically supervised weight loss programs. Our solutions are designed to address the complexities of weight management, combining the best of advanced medical science with modern technology. We provide comprehensive service that includes doctor consultations, medication (where appropriate and after qualification), lab work, unlimited support, and shipping with no hidden fees, all to empower you to achieve your health goals safely and effectively. We invite you to take our free assessment quiz to see how our personalized approach can make a difference for you.
Beyond Hydration: A Holistic Approach to Weight Loss with TrimRx
Understanding how to drink water correctly for weight loss is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle, but it’s just one piece of the larger puzzle. At TrimRx, we believe in a holistic, personalized approach to weight management that integrates cutting-edge science with compassionate, individualized care. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and support needed for safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss.
Our Commitment to Personalized Care
At TrimRx, our journey began with a shared vision to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles. We merged cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective weight loss solutions, creating a platform that is user-friendly and supportive. We believe that sustainable weight loss should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach. Our brand is empathetic, innovative, trustworthy, supportive, results-oriented, and personalized, ensuring that you receive compassionate care that respects your unique journey.
We understand that weight loss is not a linear path, and what works for one person may not work for another. This is why personalization is at the core of everything we do. Our programs are designed to be flexible and adaptable, evolving with your needs and progress. We combine advanced medical science with modern technology to deliver care that is not only effective but also convenient and accessible. Our commitment to transparent service means our approach remains consistent, irrespective of dosage changes or other program adjustments. Furthermore, your safety is our utmost priority; we work exclusively with FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies for the shipping of any weight loss medications. It’s crucial to understand that TrimRx partners with these pharmacies and does not provide actual medical supervision; instead, our programs facilitate access to care from licensed medical professionals.
Exploring Our Personalized Weight Loss Programs
For those seeking a more structured and medically supervised approach, our personalized weight loss programs offer a comprehensive solution. These programs are tailored to your specific health profile and weight loss goals, integrating medical expertise with continuous support.
Our prescription medication offerings, which require completion of our free assessment quiz to determine eligibility and receive a personalized treatment plan, include:
- Compounded Semaglutide: A highly effective GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.
- Oral Semaglutide: The convenience of an oral GLP-1 medication for appetite and blood sugar management.
- Ozempic®: An FDA-approved branded Semaglutide medication.
- Compounded Tirzepatide: A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist offering comprehensive metabolic benefits.
- Oral Tirzepatide: An oral option for the dual-action Tirzepatide.
- Mounjaro®: An FDA-approved branded Tirzepatide medication.
- Zepbound®: An FDA-approved branded Tirzepatide medication specifically for weight management.
- Wegovy®: An FDA-approved branded Semaglutide medication specifically for weight management.
When considering these prescription medications, it’s important to note that our compounded medications are provided through FDA-registered, inspected, and approved pharmacies, ensuring quality and safety. Branded medications like Ozempic®, Zepbound®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® are FDA-approved. Our comprehensive service includes doctor consultations, any necessary lab work, medication, unlimited support, and shipping, all designed to provide a seamless and effective experience.
Ready to see if a personalized prescription weight loss plan is right for you? Take our free assessment quiz today to start your journey towards a healthier weight with TrimRx.
Enhancing Your Journey with Quick-Access Supplements
Beyond prescription medications, we also offer quick-access supplements designed to support your overall wellness and complement your weight loss journey. These supplements do not require a quiz and are available for immediate purchase, offering convenient support for your metabolic health and satiety.
- GLP-1 Daily Support: This supplement is formulated to provide daily support for the body’s natural GLP-1 processes, helping to manage appetite and support healthy digestion. It’s an excellent way to support your body’s natural signals, aiding in satiety and promoting balanced metabolic function.
- Weight Loss Boost: Designed to give your weight loss efforts an extra edge, Weight Loss Boost incorporates ingredients aimed at supporting metabolism and energy levels. It can be a valuable addition to your routine, helping you feel more energized and focused on your goals.
These quick-access supplements are crafted with the same commitment to quality and effectiveness that defines all TrimRx products. Whether you are exploring prescription options or seeking immediate support for your wellness, we provide scientifically-backed solutions to help you achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
The journey to sustainable weight loss is a multifaceted one, and while there are many components to consider, understanding how to drink water correctly for weight loss stands out as a simple yet profoundly impactful strategy. From subtly boosting your metabolism and effectively curbing your appetite to enhancing your physical performance and providing a calorie-free alternative to sugary drinks, water is an indispensable ally. By dispelling common myths and embracing practical, consistent hydration habits, you can leverage this fundamental resource to significantly support your health and weight management goals.
At TrimRx, we are dedicated to supporting you on this journey with empathy, innovation, and a results-oriented approach. We believe in providing personalized, medically supervised care that integrates the best of science and technology. Whether you choose to explore our comprehensive personalized weight loss programs, which can include powerful medications like [Compounded Semaglutide] or [Zepbound®], or opt for the immediate support of our GLP-1 Daily Support and Weight Loss Boost supplements, our commitment is to your safety and success.
Remember, every step, no matter how small, contributes to your overall well-being. By prioritizing your hydration, you’re not just drinking water; you’re investing in a healthier, more vibrant future. We encourage you to take the next step towards a personalized weight loss plan tailored just for you. Discover your eligibility and explore your options by taking our free assessment quiz today. Let us partner with you to achieve the sustainable, healthy lifestyle you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How does drinking water specifically help with appetite suppression for weight loss?
Drinking water before meals helps create a temporary feeling of fullness by occupying space in your stomach. This can signal to your brain that you’re less hungry, leading you to consume fewer calories during the meal. This strategy is particularly effective when combined with mindful eating and a balanced diet, helping to prevent overeating and unnecessary snacking.
2. Is there a difference in weight loss benefits between drinking cold water and room temperature water?
While some believe drinking cold water burns more calories as the body warms it up, the calorie expenditure from this process is minimal and unlikely to have a significant impact on weight loss. The primary benefits of water for weight loss—such as appetite suppression, metabolic support, and replacing caloric beverages—are not significantly affected by water temperature. Focus on drinking water at a temperature you find enjoyable to ensure consistent hydration.
3. Can I get enough water from other beverages like coffee or tea, or does it have to be plain water?
While beverages like coffee, tea, and even milk do contribute to your daily fluid intake, plain water is generally the best choice for hydration, especially for weight loss. Caffeinated drinks can have a mild diuretic effect, potentially causing you to urinate more frequently, though they still contribute to overall fluid balance. Sugary drinks, on the other hand, add unnecessary calories. Incorporating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables also significantly boosts your hydration. For optimal hydration and weight loss support, prioritize plain water while enjoying other hydrating beverages in moderation.
4. How can TrimRx help me integrate correct water drinking habits into a broader weight loss plan?
At TrimRx, we recognize that hydration is a key component of a successful weight loss journey. Our personalized, medically supervised programs consider all aspects of your health, including nutrition and lifestyle. We provide expert guidance and support to help you develop sustainable habits, including optimizing your water intake. Our approach complements any prescribed medications or supplements, like GLP-1 Daily Support or Weight Loss Boost, ensuring that your hydration strategy is an effective part of your overall personalized plan. To learn more and see how we can tailor a plan for you, we encourage you to take our free assessment quiz.
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