Drinking of water is almost an afterthought.
We’re thirsty, take a drink of water. We need to wash down food, take a drink of water. We’re a bit overheated, take a drink of water. However, if we are going to maintain optimal health, we must be better attuned to what water means for our bodies. Depriving ourselves of water, even if unintentional, can lead to serious issues.
That is why before we exercise, spend time in the heat or start our day, we should be well-hydrated. From a scientific perspective, water is vital for our various bodily functions including cell development; the breakdown and transportation of proteins, minerals and carbs to feed the body; help the body discard waste; regulate body temperature; promote tissue development; protect joints and more.
Water is a Basic Need
When it comes to basic needs of survival, air and water are at the top of the list. When it comes to our health, a deficit of water can result in headaches, stiff joints, a lack of saliva production, sluggishness, dizziness, and more. Major health concerns such as heat stroke, kidney stones, shock, seizures can occur if the water deficit is significant. Having sufficient water in our bodies keeps us running like a well-oiled machine.
That means having water not only helps promote health, but it also fosters better physical and mental performance whether it is running a marathon, walking the dog, tending the garden or doing a crossword puzzle.
How Many Glasses Per Day?
So how much water do you need?
According to the experts at Healthline.com, it depends on what one consumes during the day and varies by age, weight, health and activity level. And, our bodies have a built-in process to help maintain a healthy water level. The rule of thumb is to take your body weight, divide it by two and you have your suggested water intake in ounces per day. A 160-pound person should have 80 ounces of water per day (160 / 2 = 80).
We can hydrate our bodies through a variety of sources. Fruit drinks, coffee, soda, fruits and vegetables, soups and milk all provide water. However, you should be attuned to what those bring with them such as high sugar or salt content, caffeine, additives, etc. They can affect how our body functions. For example, caffeine has a diuretic effect on the body and creates increased urination.
Water Helps Maintain Vibrancy?
It is possible to drink too much water, although we have the ability to regulate ourselves and that rarely occurs to the point we may be in danger. Too much water can dilute our mineral levels. But it might be that we retain water though health maladies such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease and diabetes.
I like to think of the body like a plant. If it gets too hot and the water evaporates, the plant shrivels as a defensive mechanism. That only works in the short-term, however. If the situation extends itself, the plant cells shut down and death follows. But, keep the plant hydrated, and it stays vibrant and actually grows and bears fruit or flowers.
Your key to good health requires a variety of actions on your part, but none are easier than simply drinking a glass of water. Let’s not make drinking of water is almost an afterthought.
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