How often have you heard medical and fitness experts telling you to drink copious amounts of water? Every time you go to them with any kind of problem, that’s the numero uno advice you always get! Why, then, do you ignore the ‘8-glasses of a water a day’ rule? It’s not like you don’t heed their advice when they ask you to up your protein or calcium intake. So it’s really not fair to treat water as the ‘ignored nutrient,’ right?
Water is absolutely crucial for your survival. You can live for just about a week without water, while you can go on 3 weeks without food. The humble H2O performs several vital functions in the body. We are here to help you understand its importance for your health and wellbeing. Here’s why water is an important ingredient:
Brain Function
Ever faced concentration issues and blamed it on stress or new love? Well, these are not the only reasons your focus levels might be in trouble. When you don’t have enough water, your brain is unable to concentrate on the tasks at hand. Seventy-five percent of your brain is made up of water. So, when you give it enough H2O, you aid in the elimination of toxins and the efficient transfer of nutrients in your body (2). This helps in better focus and alertness as well as clarity and creativity.
Muscle Function
People often hit the gym with a bottle of water and there’s a reason for that. Your body is made up of over 600 muscles and each of these muscles are 15-20 percent water (3). Water helps in the proper movement of your muscles and even joints. If you’re dehydrated, i.e. your muscles are not lubricated, you’re likely to experience cramps, aches, and pains every time your muscles contract. Even if you don’t work out, water is necessary for your body’s daily movements.
Kidney Function
The kidney is the filter of your body. Its function is to eliminate all the waste in your body via urine by purifying your blood. Other roles of your kidney include keeping your blood pressure in check and ensuring that your blood is able to re-absorb nutrients. That said, your kidney is able to perform all its functions properly only when you keep it hydrated. Dehydration can damage your kidneys beyond repair and even lead to urinary tract infections and kidney stones. To know if you’re dehydrated, check the color of your urine. Dark yellow color means you are dehydrated.
Digestive System Function
Another area where water plays a crucial role is in the function of your digestive system. Not only does it improve the way your digestive system works, but it also enhances your metabolism. Besides, since water aids in the digestion of soluble fiber, it acts as a great cure for constipation. It eases your bowel movements and helps in the formation of soft stools.
We’ve safely established the fact that water is extremely important for your body. So, instead of ignoring this vital nutrient, shift your focus to having more and more of it each day. That’s one way to achieve a healthy and happy life!
Source: Stylecrze.com
