It is a question that has puzzled many: “How much water should we be drinking every day?” Granted, we do not necessarily feel thirsty all the time; that is especially relevant if we do not live in a tropical country. When symptoms of dehydration occur, they can initially be hard to spot; nevertheless, over time, they can take a toll on the mind and body. So, are there really any benefits to drinking water? If you are in doubt, consider six benefits of drinking water to keep you hydrated and support your physical and mental health.
Maximizes Physical Performance
If you do not stay hydrated, your energy level will be affected. That’s why it is recommended to drink 1.2 liters of water daily, which translates into six to eight glasses of water or any other fluid every day. When your body is dehydrated, it keeps your joints working smoothly and moves nutrients around the body with ease. Symptoms of a dehydrated body include tiredness, dizziness, fatigue, and a dry mouth.
Prevents Hangovers
A hangover is an unpleasant symptom that occurs when you drink too much alcohol. Even though symptoms of a hangover can disappear within 24 hours, water relieves it faster. A smart way to reduce the symptoms of a hangover is to drink a glass of water between drinks and have at least one big glass before going to bed.
Can Aid in Weight Loss
Water can help you burn more calories, that is especially relevant if you are trying to lose weight. Water aids the digestive system, it prevents constipation, flushes toxins from the body, and promotes good kidney function. A study published in 2003 found that switching from drinking cold water to hot water could increase weight loss remarkably. 500 ml of water before a meal increases metabolism by 30 per cent. Water can also aid digestion and prevent stomach discomfort or bloating, which promotes weight loss.
Treats Kidney Stones
Drinking a sufficient amount of water can flush out toxins and kidney stones from the body. A kidney stone is made of tiny crystals, which can block the flow of urine and cause infection, kidney damage, and even failure. When you drink enough water, you increase the volume of urine passing through the kidneys. This dilutes the concentration of minerals, so they crystallize less and do not form clumps.
Prevents Headaches
When your body is deprived of water, it can cause headaches that are hard to relieve. Research shows that headaches are the most common symptom of dehydration. While water might not solve headaches, it can help prevent and fight them. A dehydration headache occurs when your brain or other tissues in your body shrink. When that happens, your brain pulls away from the skull, which puts pressure and pain on the nerves. When you are properly hydrated and your body has sufficient fluids, the brain plumps back to its previous size, and the pain dissipates.
Boosts Brain Function
Water plays a pivotal role in boosting the functions of the brain. For starters, it helps the brain produce neurotransmitters and hormones, which lowers the level of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that optimizes the blood sugar level and repairs body tissue. It also promotes overall brain cell function and cell production. When in doubt, have a glass of water, it will help your brain cells communicate better with each other and clear toxins and wastes that could impair its function. Although staying hydrated isn’t by itself a rewarding experience, nothing beats the blissful feeling of a cold glass of water on a hot summer’s day. Regardless of what you are drinking, satiation is a satisfying experience!
David Messiha | Staff Writer
