Drinking water, whether from the tap, river or bottled should be safe for human consumption. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is: About 15.5 cups (3.7 litres) of fluids a day for men. About 11.5 cups (2.7 litres) of fluids a day for women. The daily four-to-six cup rule is for generally healthy people. Here are benefits of drinking water to our bodies.
- Prevents Dehydration
Did you know that dehydration may impair memory or mood in everyone? Dehydration has a negative effect to our bodies. It may also cause headaches and migraines.
- Assists in Digestion
Drinking lots of water prevents constipation and allows proper digestion of food. It also prevents acid in the stomach that causes ulcers and heartburn.
- Keeps skin rejuvenated
Just like plants need water, consumption of water keeps our skin dehydrated, healthy and young.
- Supports the Urinary System and excretion of waste from the body
Water flushes bacteria from your bladder. It is needed for the removal of excess sweat, faeces and urine.
- Supports the Kidney
The kidney needs water to perform its function of regulating fluids in the body. Lack of water may cause kidney stones. Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and acid salts that stick together in concentrated urine. They can be painful when passing through the urinary tract.
- Weight Loss
Drinking water regularly especially before meals may help in weight loss. If consumed before eating a meal, one may feel satisfied and not eat much.
- It delivers Oxygen in the Body
90% of the blood is composed of water. The blood carries oxygen to different organs of the body for their function.
- It forms saliva and mucus
Saliva helps us to chew and digest food. It also keeps the mouth eyes and nose moist. Water also keeps the mouth clean and reduces tooth decay.
- Lubricates the joints
Cartilage in the joints amounts to 80% of water. Dehydration may reduce joint shock ability that leads to joint pains.
- Protects the Spinal Cord, Brain and other sensitive Tissues
Prolonged dehydration can affect the brain and spinal cord functions. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters.