6 Proven Health Benefits of
Proper Hydration
BY NICHELLE LUCERO
photo: manki kim
Did you know that the average man should drink about four liters of water per day, and the average woman should drink about three liters of water per day? Most people fall drastically short when it comes to drinking the right amount of water in a day. Yet water is a basic necessity of life, so it’s important to drink a sufficient amount every day.
Every part of your body relies on water to properly function. Without enough water, your organs will have to work much harder, and dehydration can have a long-term impact on your wellbeing. If you value your health, then it’s important to understand how proper hydration will benefit your body.
1. Better Temperature Regulation
Humans sweat to cool down, and doing so requires a lot of water. If you don’t drink enough water while you exert yourself, then you won’t be able to sweat, and you may overheat. In warmer weather, chronic dehydration may lead to heatstroke, and that condition can be very dangerous.
To avoid heatstroke, it’s a good idea to carry water with you at all times, especially in the summer months and when you’re physically active. Even if you don’t develop heatstroke, a high temperature just isn’t comfortable, and it will prevent you from enjoying your day. If you are feeling a little off on a hot day, then you should seek shade and find some fresh water as soon as possible. Once you’re hydrated, you’ll be able to face the day’s activities with increased energy and a reinvigorated spirit.
2. Weight Loss
Dehydration and hunger feel remarkably similar. Because of this, many people reach for a snack when they should really be reaching for a bottle of water. This can lead to a vicious cycle of snacking, which contributes to dehydration and unintentional weight gain. A glass of water 20 to 30 minutes before every meal will help you feel full for a longer span of time, so you won’t end up craving snacks and other unnecessary calories. Some homes may not have the best tap water, so you should get high-quality filters to ensure that you can drink clean, flavorful water whenever you want. Check out Berkey water filters to ensure clean water for the entire household.
3. Improved Cardiovascular Health
As you become more and more dehydrated, your blood becomes thicker and thicker. Your heart is a sensitive muscle, and it will have to work very hard to push thicker blood through your veins. This can wear out your heart over time and cause serious damage. Your heart isn’t designed to push a thick paste through your veins, so it’s important to drink enough water so that your cardiovascular system can work at peak efficiency.
As a bonus, when you’re properly hydrated, your body is better able to bring vital electrolytes to your muscles. These electrolytes will allow you to carry out strenuous physical activities without severe cramps or soreness. Furthermore, when you hydrate during a hike, workout, or other vigorous activity, you will be able to recover more quickly, so you can go back to the gym, track, or trail much sooner.
4. More Comfort in the Washroom
To maintain a healthy body, you need to regularly go to the bathroom. When you do your business, you are expelling toxins and waste from your body. Without enough water, your body will not be able to expel waste as easily or consistently. This can lead to kidney stones, constipation, and other painful problems. Constipation and kidney stones aren’t only painful, but they can also interfere with your everyday life. After all, who wants to go to work or visit a friend when they’re severely constipated? Water will help clear out your system so that you can consistently relieve yourself without discomfort.
5. Stronger Immune System
Even if you don’t notice it, your body is in a constant battle with viruses, bacteria, and other nasty pathogens. Proper hydration allows your white blood cells to enter the fray and defend your body. On top of that, water helps your body clear out dead tissues, waste products, and toxins so that your cells can operate in a safe and sanitary environment.
When you drink enough water every day, you’ll find that you won’t feel sick or tired as often. If you’re sick with an illness that causes diarrhea or vomiting, then it’s especially important to drink a lot of water. Otherwise, these symptoms can quickly make you dehydrated and exacerbate the condition.
6. Increased Energy
When you’re dehydrated, your eyes, mouth, and skin feel dry, and you just want to sit down and do nothing. Often, people feel tired when they really just need a glass of water. This is especially true after a meal or snack. If you’re feeling a little drowsy after lunch, then you should drink a glass of water or two. It will reinvigorate your body and give you the energy that you need to tackle the rest of the day.
Drinking enough water is one of the seven pillars of health, and its benefits can’t be overstated. If you think that you’re not properly hydrated, then develop a practical plan to meet the recommended amount every day.
About The Author
Nichelle Lucero is a lifestyle writer. She loves sharing her ideas and personal experiences through her writing. She currently writes on a variety of health and lifestyle topics for her personal blog lifewithkrich.com. Her favorite pastime is working out and reading books together with her cats, Chloe, Milo and Nocco.
