Ever gotten sick and been told to “drink lots of fluids”? You might follow the advice and get your needed fluids from coffee, soda, or juice.
But there’s a better way to get your daily fluid intake: water.
Virtually every one of us knows that water is vital to life. Drinking plenty of it is key to healthy living. And you might have already heard of the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day.
Despite that, we can’t seem to meet that requirement. We only drink water whenever we feel thirsty or during meals.
So to encourage you to stay hydrated, we listed down some of the many health benefits of drinking water.
Gives You an Energy Boost
Each time you wake up from a deep slumber or feel lethargic as you go about your day, don’t make a cup of joe just yet. Drink water first to pep up your body.
Dehydration can cause you to feel more sluggish and less focused. But a simple glass of water can instantly help improve your body’s circulation and brain’s oxygen levels, giving you your much-needed energy boost.
Improves Your Body’s Thermostat
Another effect of dehydration is that it impairs our ability to withstand heat. But by staying hydrated, your body can produce more sweat, which helps regulate your temperature.
So when you work out or when your body overheats, you need to drink plenty of water to prevent heat strain.
Makes You Feel Relaxed
Ever gotten angry and felt your entire face heating up? Take a deep breath, drink a glass of water, and see how it calms you.
With its natural soothing properties, water can help alleviate anxiety, relieve stress, and improve your overall mood.
Boosts Your Brain’s Performance
There’s strong evidence that proves how hydration significantly affects your brain. Not only does it improve your mood, but it also enhances your memory and concentration.
Whenever you lack alertness or attentiveness, make sure that you consume plenty of water–because mild dehydration can adversely affect your brain function.
Prevents or Treats Health Problems
The harmful effects of dehydration are too many to count. Some of the most common are headaches, constipation, and even kidney stones.
But you don’t need to experience dehydration just to understand how bad it is for your body. Drink the right amount of water every day, and your body will thank you for it.
Aids in Digestion
Water keeps every organ in our digestive systems in tiptop condition–from our mouths to our intestines. A lack of it can lead to bloating and other digestive discomforts.
Unless you want to suffer from stomach aches or irregular bowel movements, remember to stay hydrated at all times. Doing so can even clean your mouth and improve oral health.
Relieves Joint Pain
About 80% of your joint cartilage is made up of water. That’s why hydration can lubricate your joints, provide them with shock-absorbing cushion, and reduce friction.
That means by drinking plenty of water, you can keep your joints moving smoothly and free from aches.
Helps You Maintain a Healthy Weight
Whenever you feel the need for food, try drinking water first and see if you’re mistaking thirst for hunger. You can also stave off cravings during dietary transitions and cravings for sweets by drinking lots of water.
If you plan to lose weight, drink water before meals to feel full and eat fewer calories. And instead of reaching for that can of soda, grab a glass of water, which has zero calories and is just plain healthier.
Westmount at London Park in Houston, TX