Water is the most important thing you need to survive. The human body is made up of about 60–70% water and nearly every cell, tissue, and organ need it to function well. Many people overlook the incredible advantages of adequately hydrating your body. Water does more than just quench your thirst. Drinking more water will have profound effects on the quality of your health, your appearance, and your general well-being.
In this article, we’ll explain in detail how water alters the human body, what the science is behind hydration, and, finally, how to ensure you get enough water each day.
Why Humans Need Water in Their Bodies
Water is more than just something we need; it is the fuel that powers our bodily systems. Bodily principles and functions cannot take place without enough water. Such functions include:
Regulating temperature
Transferring nutrients and oxygen to cells
Eliminating waste and toxins
Cushioning joints and tissues
Facilitating metabolism and digestion
Hydration = Health
The Hydration Story: Finding Increments of Health after Drinking More Water
When you drink more water, your body will respond in an incredible number of ways. Let’s review the changes you can expect through the process of changing your hydration levels to enjoy those health benefits.
- Improved brain function and mental clarity
The human brain contains approximately 75% water. Even mild dehydration results in headaches, fatigue, and poor concentration. The brain requires water to operate optimally, and hydration allows it to work at full capacity.
- Improved Digestion & Nutrient Absorption
Water is essential to aid in the breakdown of food and transport of nutrients through your digestive system. Staying hydrated will:
- Prevent constipation
- Improve absorption of nutrients
- Help in metabolism
- Decrease bloating and discomfort
The more water you drink, the easier your digestive system operates like a well-oiled machine.
- Healthier Skin and Slower Aging
The biggest visual change from drinking water is healthier skin. Water hydrates our cells from the inside out, meaning:
- Less wrinkles and fine lines
- More natural glow and radiance
- Less acne and skin irritation
- Better elasticity and firmness
Hydration could arguably be the cheapest form of anti-aging treatment on the market.
- Weight Loss & Appetite Suppression
Water is your greatest ally if you’re trying to lose weight. Studies have shown that drinking water prior to meals has great benefits associated with portion control. Water:
- Temporarily increases metabolism
- Helps burn calories more effectively
- Naturally suppresses appetite
- Replaces higher calorie drinks like soda
Simply swapping sugary drinks for water can lower your daily caloric intake.
- Detoxifying and Healthy Kidneys
Your kidneys filter your blood for toxins and waste, and water is necessary for this to happen. Being sufficiently hydrated will help:
- Flush toxins
- Block kidney stones
- Decrease urinary tract infections
- Work with supporting healthy liver user
- Stronger Joints and Muscles
Water plays a vital role as lubricant and cushion for your joints and muscles. Maintaining proper hydration for the joints and muscles helps to:
Reduce joint pain
Improve flexibility
Increase physical activity performance
Prevent muscle cramps
Athletes and individuals who participate in fitness activities benefit from increased hydration.
- Better Heart Health and Blood Circulation
Blood is made up of approximately 90% water, so drinking more water will help improve blood and cardiovascular function. It can help with:
Blood pressure
Improve circulation
Decrease work of the heart
Decrease cardiovascular disease
- Temperature Control
Water helps keep your body temperature stable by sweating and breathing. Staying properly hydrated will help you avoid heat exhaustion, heatstroke, or even overheating during activity when temperatures are hot.
- Increased Immune System Functionality
Water helps strengthen the body’s natural defenses by:
Transports oxygen to immune cells
Removes waste products from the body
Helps with lymphatic drainage
Helps the body fight pathogens or infection
The better hydrated your body is, the more defenses you can create against your illness.
How much water should I drink a day?
The general guideline is 8 glasses a day (roughly 2 liters), but the exact needs can vary per individual and factors such as:
Age and Gender
Active Lifestyle
Climate / Temperature
Overall Health
As a good rule of thumb; try to drink enough water so that you can see pale yellow urine and not dark urine.
Signs to watch for that you are dehydrated:
Dehydration
The Long-Term Effects of Proper Hydration
Over the course of weeks and months, consistently drinking enough water will allow for:
An improved metabolism
More youthful, glowing skin
Better immune function
Improved mental health
Reduced risk of chronic disease
Hydration is truly one of the easiest ways to invest in your long-term health.
Conclusion
Drinking more water regularly is among the handful of the easiest and most impactful habits you can create for your health! The health benefits range from improved brain function, higher energy levels, and more efficient digestion, to glowing skin and improved immune function!
Start simple, if you want to drink an extra glass or two of water per day, carry a water bottle with you, and listen to your body’s signals. Over time, you will actually witness how something so simple can actually change your body from the inside out.
Remember: Water is life. Stay hydrated; stay healthy.