Importance and Benefits of Staying hydrated

Staying hydrated is quite crucial for overall health. Most people do not take the required amounts of fluids every day.

The human body is made up of 60% water. 71% of the earth’s surface is covered by water. Hence, having water everywhere, most people do not list water as a top priority.

Importance and Benefits of drinking water

1.     Water lubricates the joints

The cartilage, which is present in joints and the disks of the spine, is made up of 80% water. Long-term dehydration can decrease the shock-absorbing ability of joints and can further cause joints pain.

2.     Formation of saliva and mucus

Saliva is the mouth helps in the digestion of food and also moisturizes the eyes, nose, and mouth. It further decreases damage and friction. Drinking water keeps the mouth clean and fresh. Consume plenty of water than taking sweetened beverages that cause harmful effects like tooth decay.

3.     Water delivers oxygen

Blood constitutes around 90% water. Blood is responsible for transferring oxygen among different parts of the body.

4.     Water for healthy skin

Dehydration can cause skin problems like premature wrinkling and other skin disorders.

5.     Water for brain and spinal cord

Dehydration can cause negative effects on brain function and structure. Drinking water is associated with the production of neurotransmitters and hormones. Long-term dehydration can have negative effects on thinking and reasoning abilities.

6.     Water for body temperature

Water present in the middle layers of skin comes on the surface skin due to heat in the form of sweat. By evaporating, it gives a cooling effect to the body.

Some experts stated that when dehydration occurs in the body, heat level increases, and the person becomes more vulnerable to heat strains.

A hydrated body decreases physical strain, especially during exercise, if the body gets heat up. But researches are lacking in this area.

7.     Water for digestive system

The bowel system requires water for proper functioning. Dehydration causes many issues like acidic stomach, digestive problems, and constipation. It can further increase the risk of stomach ulcers and heartburn.

8.     Flushes body waste

Water is quite essential in the process of sweating and in the elimination of feces and urine.

9.     Maintain blood pressure

Dehydration can cause thickening of the blood and may increase blood pressure.

10.    Water for airways

Dehydration can make airways get restricted in order to decrease water loss. It can worsen the situation of allergies and asthma.

11.     Minerals and nutrients

Many minerals and nutrients are water-soluble, which makes them easier to reach different parts of the body.

12.    Prevents kidney damage

Kidneys manage fluid balance in the body. Lack of water can cause kidney stones and other problems.

13.    Boosts performance during exercise

Scientists have stated that taking plenty of water may promote better performance during the workout.

However, more researches are required in this area. One review concluded that dehydration decreases performance in activities consisting of more than 30 minutes.

14.    Water for Weight loss

Water is known to contribute to weight loss if preferably taken over juices and sodas. Consuming enough water before mealtimes may decrease overeating as it may give a filling effect to the body.

Sources of water

There are many foods that contain adequate amount of water, such as:

• Apples
• Cucumber
• Celery
• Peaches
• Watermelon
• Lettuce
• Watercress

Electrolytes

It is another best source of water as it keeps you hydrated for a long time and also helps to rebuild the tissues that are damaged. Electrolytes are essential for nerve and muscle functioning as well.