When you stop to consider just how much of our bodies are made up of water, you begin to realize how important water is to our diets.
Water makes up somewhere between 60 and 70 per cent of our bodies. It exists in every organ, every cell, and every function of our bodies. From breathing to walking, water plays a role in our health and our ability to function on a daily basis.
Replacing water through our diet is critical, and knowing just how much water to drink each day is just as important.
First, we need to realize there are consequences to not consuming enough water. Most importantly, a lack of water can lead directly to dehydration and more complications such as dry skin, irritability, sunken eyes. In severe cases, death can occur – all because there is not enough liquid included in a diet.
The simple answer was always to drink 8 glasses, or 64oz of water a day. This idea didn’t take into consideration things like body weight and activity level.
Today, a slightly more involved formula is commonly used to determine just how much water you should drink. Each day, try to drink at least half your weight and that’s how many ounces of water you should drink. If you weigh 100 lbs, drink 50 ounces of water. If you are an active person, you will want to up this to 75\% of weight. If you weigh 100 pounds, drink 75 ounces of water. This formula will ensure that you have enough water to keep yourself hydrated.
The benefits of drinking enough water are much more than simply avoiding dehydration. Water can help your body do any number of necessary things such as:
Keeps Skin Looking Fresh and Young – Water will help you replenish moisture in your skin and help keep its natural elasticity.
Assist in Weight Loss – By aiding in digestion and increasing metabolism, a simple glass of water can help you lose weight.
Work as a Natural Headache Remedy – Many headaches are actually caused by dehydration, so staying hydrated can keep those headaches at bay.
Increase Productivity – Like most of your body, your brain is made up mostly of water. Drinking enough water can help you think clearly.
Increase Benefits While Working Out – Water helps to keep your body temperature regulated which can make your work outs more productive.
Improve Digestion and Assist in Alleviating Constipation – Water keeps the digestive system working and can stop reoccurring constipation.
Lessen the Occurrence of Sprains and Muscle Cramps – Water keeps muscles, joints and ligaments properly lubricated and in good working condition.
Improve the Immune System – Water will help you fight off common flu bugs by helping the body work properly.
Alleviate Fatigue – Water assists your body as it gets rid of toxins – the fewer toxins, the easier it is for your body to work and the less tired you feel.
Improve Mood – When your body is functioning well, you feel better!
Increase the Body’s Protection Against Cancer – Especially cancer of the digestive system. By improving the function of the digestive system, it benefits your overall health.
