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The Benefits of Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is crucial for well-being, but most people don’t consume near enough fluids each day. Here are just a few of the ways water benefits our bodies:
JOINTS:
Water lubricates our joints. Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of our spine, contains around 80 percent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the shock-absorbing ability of our joints, which can lead to joint pain.
SALIVA FORMATION:
According to Science Daily, saliva is produced in our salivary glands and is over 98% water. But saliva contains many important substances, including electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial compounds and various other enzymes. Saliva also helps moisten food so that we can digest it, keeps the mucus membranes (such as the nose and eyes) moist and may also decrease the amount of tooth decay, which may occur as a result of dry mouth.
OXYGEN DELIVERY:
Blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body and is made up of more than 90% water.
HEALTHY SKIN:
With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.
BRAIN FUNCTION:
Dehydration can affect brain structure and function, according to Medical News Today. Water is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.
BODY TEMPERATURE:
Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin, comes to the skin’s surface as sweat when the body heats up and as it evaporates, cools the body.
DIGESTION:
Dehydration can lead to all kinds of digestive problems, including constipation and the increased risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.
WASTE REMOVAL:
Water is needed in the processes of sweating, as well as the removal of urine and feces.
BLOOD PRESSURE:
Water helps to maintain blood pressure. Thicker blood caused by a lack of water increases blood pressure.
BREATHING:
When you are dehydrated, your airways become restricted in an effort to conserve and minimize water loss. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, this can make them worse.
TRANSPORT OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS:
Water aids in the dissolving and transport of vitamins and minerals to different parts of your body.
KIDNEYS:
Water is crucial for kidney health. Kidneys regulate fluid in the body and too little water can lead to problems such as kidney stones among others.
EXERCISE PERFORMANCE:
Water can actually boost your performance during exercise. While more studies continue, Science Direct reports that dehyration reduces performance in strenuous activity that lasts longer than 30 minutes.
WEIGHT LOSS:
Water, if consumed instead of other beverages, may contribute to weight loss. Consider drinking water before meals. It can help to prevent overeating and give you a sense of fullness.
