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What are the benefits of drinking more water? |
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As a whole, we are made up of 70% water. Water regulates every function in your body. Water flushes out all the waste and toxins in our bodies. It also transports all the necessary nutrients our bodies need to look and feel good. It flushes out impurities in the skin; when skin cells are hydrated, they plump up to give you a good complexion. Also, muscles that are hydrated look more toned because they are made of 70% water. Not drinking enough water is similar to depriving that less-than-vibrant plant you water every few weeks. The plant will survive, but at what expense… Other benefits to drinking water include:Helps digest food Lowers Blood pressure Reduces Constipation Lessens Asthma Eases Depression Metabolizes fat Supports healthy hair and nails Carries more blood and oxygen to your face Eases irritability Regulates body temperature so you don’t get too cold or too hot Suppresses appetite Prevents water retention Reduces stress There are so many aches and pains that most people attribute to being old, sick or tired, when in all actuality, it’s probably just a case of dehydration. Even a lack of concentration and focus can be attributed to a lack of water. It only makes sense, considering our brains are made up of 90% water. Those nagging headaches we often get, that most people shrug off as part of life or the common cold can also just be a case of dehydration. What about those painful joints that we complain about? Water works as a lubricant – the two opposing surfaces (for example, the femur and the tibia at the knee) will glide freely and minimize friction damage, causing less pain. Written by Becky Hand, Licensed & Registered Dietitian |