Drinking enough water is essential for nearly every function in the body. Our bodies are made up of approximately 60% water, and it plays a vital role in maintaining our overall well-being, from supporting energy levels and brain function to aiding digestion and regulating temperature. Water helps keep your body balanced, focused and healthy. It helps transport nutrients and oxygen to our cells, flushes out toxins, lubricates our joints, and supports proper organ function. Even mild dehydration can impact how you feel and perform day to day.
Despite its undeniable significance, many of us fail to prioritise drinking enough water throughout the day. We may find ourselves reaching for a cup of coffee or sugary drinks to keep us going, but these beverages don’t provide the same hydrating benefits as pure water. In fact, they can even contribute to dehydration due to their diuretic properties.
To maintain optimal health, it’s recommended that adults drink at least eight standard glasses (240ml glasses or 8 fluid ounces) of water per day, also known as the “8×8 rule.” However, individual water needs can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, amount of physical activity, and climate. Listening to thirst and urine colour is often a more reliable indicator.
How do I know if I’m dehydrated?
Most people don’t realise how even mild dehydration can affect energy, focus, digestion and mood. To get ahead of dehydration, you first need to be able to identify when your body is dehydrated. According to the NHS, these symptoms are good signifiers that your body needs more water:
- Thirst
- Feeling tired
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth, lips and tongue
- Dark yellow or strong-smelling urine
- Sunken eyes
Benefits of drinking water: a quick overview
What does water do for the body? Drinking enough water can help:
- Support digestion and nutrient absorption
- Improve energy levels and focus
- Aid metabolism and appetite control
- Flush waste from the body
- Support skin, joint and muscle health
These are just some of the key benefits of drinking more water, but how exactly does proper hydration deliver each of these benefits in your body?
1. Hydration: the foundation of health
Water is the cornerstone of life itself. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body relies on water to function correctly. Adequate fluid intake keeps your body’s systems running smoothly, ensuring optimal health. By drinking water regularly, you’re providing your body with the essential fluid it needs to maintain balance and vitality.
2. Improved digestion
Proper digestion is vital for extracting nutrients from the food we eat. Drinking a good amount of water aids in breaking down food and ensures the smooth flow of digestion. It helps prevent constipation, allowing your body to absorb essential nutrients more efficiently.
3. Weight management
Are you looking to shed those extra pounds? Drinking water can be your secret weapon to weight loss. It can help control your appetite, making you feel fuller and reducing the urge to snack on unhealthy options. Plus, staying hydrated supports your metabolism, enabling your body to burn calories more effectively.
4. Flushing out toxins
Your body is constantly exposed to toxins from various sources like pollutants, processed foods, and stress. Drinking water acts as a natural detoxifier by flushing out harmful substances through urine and sweat. This cleansing process helps maintain the integrity of your organs and promotes overall well-being.
5. Radiant skin
Want to achieve that coveted healthy glow? Drinking water keeps your skin hydrated and helps maintain its elasticity. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, giving you a youthful complexion. Proper hydration also supports the body’s natural ability to repair and regenerate skin cells.
6. Energy boost
Feeling sluggish and fatigued? Dehydration can sap your energy levels. When you’re well-hydrated, your cells function optimally, leading to increased energy and productivity. Next time you need a pick-me-up, reach for a glass of water instead of a coffee or sports drink.
7. Cognitive clarity
Your brain, too, thrives on water. Staying hydrated enhances cognitive functions like concentration, memory, and problem-solving. When your brain is well-hydrated, you’re better equipped to tackle challenges and stay sharp throughout the day.
8. Muscle function
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a keen gym-goer or simply enjoy a brisk walk, proper muscle function is essential. Drinking water ensures that your muscles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to perform at their best. It also helps prevent painful muscle cramps and injuries.
9. Joint Health
Water serves as a natural lubricant for your joints. Staying hydrated can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, particularly important as we age. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or a weekend gardener, drinking water can help keep your joints supple and pain-free.
10. Mood enhancement
Believe it or not, water can positively impact your mood. Dehydration has been linked to increased feelings of anxiety and stress. By maintaining proper hydration, you can help keep your mind calm, improve your mood, and enhance your overall emotional well-being.
Essentially, the benefits of drinking water extend far beyond quenching your thirst. Getting enough fluid in a day is the cornerstone of good health, and its benefits ripple throughout your entire body. From improved digestion to radiant skin, enhanced cognitive function, and mood enhancement, water plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being.
With over 85 years of water expertise, Culligan understands the importance of water and how water quality and hydration affect everyday health. Our mission is to provide you with the highest quality water solutions through our range of bottled water coolers, and mains-fed water dispensers to ensure you have access to clean and refreshing water every day. Remember, the key to reaping the numerous benefits of drinking water is to make it a part of your daily routine. So, raise your glass to health, vitality, and a better you, one sip at a time
