We are told time and time again to drink enough water, to make sure we stay hydrated and that bad things will happen if we do not! We all know water is important to keep us going, but what does it actually do around the body, and what happens if we do not get enough of it?
This piece will explore why hydration is absolutely vital for us and why it is important that we get an adequate amount each day.
The Magic Elixir?
The closest you can get to a magic elixir is probably water. It will not give you immortal life, but it will make sure the life you have is healthier and happier than it would be without it.
If you feel rubbish and groggy, the first thing you should do is glug a glass of water. Signs of even the mildest dehydration can manifest in issues such as headaches, feeling tired, low mood, and feeling parched but with also dry skin, lips, and eyes. These are just a few of the symptoms that you can experience if you are dehydrated.
Regulates Body Temperature
It is critical that your body is able to regulate its temperature, as it can be extremely dangerous if it cannot. If you do not drink enough water, your body can struggle to do this. Water acts as a thermoregulator that can help the body dissipate heat – this is done through sweating. However, the more sweat you produce, the more dehydrated you can become as well, which is just another additional issue.
Helps with Concentration
Your brain needs proper hydration in order to work properly. This is because water helps the brain cells to be supplied with blood and keeps the brain alert. Water also helps your brain cells connect and communicate with each other, take nutrients to the brain, and flush out toxins and any other waste that is impairing the brain’s function – all of which are vital for brain health. When you are dehydrated, all of these actions start to slow down and make you feel sluggish, have lower concentration ability, feel less alert, and have slower reaction times.
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Keeps Your Body Moving
Water is vital for keeping your body lubricated, so if you find that your joints are starting to creak a little more than you would like or your muscles are particularly sore, you might find that drinking some water can help alleviate these issues. Did you know that around 75% of muscle is made up of water? That is why it is vital that your body remains hydrated for you to recover from workouts, feel less stiff, and help lessen those aches and pains.
There are many reasons why you should stay hydrated, and these are only a few reasons why keeping up with your water intake can benefit you significantly. If you are not sure how much you are drinking a day, get yourself a water bottle and keep track!