Hydration and Health – The Most Forgotten Connection

Tags – Hydration and Health

By the time we’re thirsty, we’re already a little dehydrated!

Consuming enough water is vital for every function in our bodies. This is because water is essential in the functioning of many of our bodily systems – from our brain and organs to our skin and muscles. 

The fact that water makes up roughly 60% of our body weight should help us to realise the impact not drinking enough water, can have on our bodies. 

To delve a little deeper, the human brain is composed of 95% water, lungs are 90%, blood is 83%, muscles are 76%, and bones are 22% water. 

Let’s look further into the health benefits of water, in general.

Health Benefits of Drinking Water

1. Water helps in lubricating the joints – Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Over time, being dehydrated can affect the cartilage and contribute to joint pain.
2. Water helps deliver oxygen throughout the body – Blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Thus having enough fluid ensure optimal function.
3. Water helps boost skin health – Not drinking enough water has been linked to poor skin health and premature wrinkling. 
4. Water can help prevent headaches and improve focus – Our brain needs water. On the other hand, dehydration can affect brain structure and function. Keep in mind that our brains are also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. So, without adequate hydration, headaches can occur, as well as having a negative effect on our focus and mood.
5. Water helps regulate body temperature – One of the more well-known benefits of water is the way it helps control your body’s temperature through perspiration and sweat.
6. The digestive system depends on water – Water is essential for good gut and digestive health. Specifically, water and other fluids help break down food, so that your body can absorb the nutrients. In addition, water aids in healthy bowel movements and prevents constipation.
7. Water helps flush body waste – Water consumption helps your body flush out waste through sweat and urination.
8. Water helps maintain blood pressure – A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.
9. The airways need water – When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimise water loss. As a result, this can often make asthma and allergies worse.
10. Water aids weight loss – Water aides in the removal of fat by-products and also helps you feel fuller.

Tips on Hydration

Here are some tips and tricks to get you sipping

1. Always have a refillable bottle of water and set a target for the day
2. Eat your H2O. Eating water-rich foods is an effective way to increase your water intake – Fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, grapefruits, strawberries, and lettuce are nice options.
3. Drink water before you get thirsty. Thirst is a sign that your body is already dehydrated.
4. Track your daily water intake. 

Best Times of the Day to Hydrate

Whilst you want to be drinking water throughout the day, there are also certain times of the day that can improve water’s effectiveness on your body:

1. After waking up – rehydrates your bodies internal organs
2. Before taking a bath –  can help lower blood pressure
3. Thirty minutes before eating and an hour after eating  – this aids digestion and then gives the body time to absorb the food’s nutrients
4. Before going to bed – this accounts for any fluid loss as you sleep.

When working with our clients, we don’t just want you out of pain –  we want you to be the healthiest versions of yourself! 

With good hydration habits, you can feel more energised, your muscles and joints can be healthier, your digestion better balanced, and your skin glowing!

To learn more, get in touch with us today.