5 Reasons Why You Need to Start Drinking More Water...Today!
by Julianne Kozak
You’ve probably heard since you were a young child that drinking water is good for you, but were you ever told why? Most people are aware that if you don’t intake enough liquids you will become dehydrated. Although this statement is true, there are far more benefits in consuming water daily. Here are 5 reasons why you need to incorporate more water into your daily routine.
Water regulates body temperature
When we are exerting energy or are in an overheated environment, our bodies excrete sweat in order to cool our body temperature. Therefore that loss of water needs to be replaced in order to stay hydrated. The human body needs about 10 liters of water a day to maintain healthy hydration.
2. Protects against constipation
If anyone has experienced constipation you know it is very uncomfortable, and probably not something you’d like to repeat. After eating, food travels from the small intestine to the large intestine (colon). The large intestine soaks up water from your food waste, so if you do not have enough water in your body, it will make the stools hard and difficult to pass.
3. Keeps your heart healthy
The Plasma in our blood is made up of 90% water. If you become dehydrated, blood becomes more concentrated and the electrolytes minerals it contains can become imbalanced. Electrolytes are imperative for proper heart and muscle function.
4. Protects your organs, tissues, and joints
Drinking 6-8 cups of water a day helps to maintain moisture in tissues, organs and even your brain. It also provides lubrication and nourishment for your joints and spinal cord.
5. Helps aid weight loss
Water acts as an appetite suppressant as it takes up space in the stomach, which sends a message to our brains that it is full. Drinking water can also increase calorie burning and can replace sodas or sports drinks that can be high in calories. Drinking enough water is also crucial for burning off stored fat (carbohydrates) and fat from food and drink.
Sources:
Functions Of Water In The Body (2018)
https://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/water-essential-to-your-body
Silbajories A. (2018). How Does Water Stabilize Temperature?
How Does Water Stabilize Temperature? | Sciencing
Fulghum Bruce D. (2022) How Drinking Fluids Can Help You Manage Your Constipation Water, Constipation, Dehydration, and Other Fluids (webmd.com)
Migala J. (2020), 7 Health Benefits Of Water Backed by Scientific Research
Functions of Water: 7 Health Benefits | Everyday Health
Medical News Today (2018) Can Water Help You Lose Weight?
6 reasons why drinking water can help you to lose weight (medicalnewstoday.com)