Water Health Benefits – Adequate Water Intake A Necessity Not An Option

The role water plays in the life of a human being is of paramount importance with several health benefits. Hence, It is critical to have adequate water intake to stay hydrated for good health and well-being. But many people do not drink enough fluids daily. Water makes up about 60% of the human body. Despite the universal nature of water, people still find it difficult to drink enough water each day. Maybe it is not at the top of their life’s priority lists. All of the body’s cells and organs require water to function properly. The way we refill our car’s radiator to avoid engine overheating is similar to how our bodies require water to avoid breaking down.

Health Benefits of Water to Human Life

1) Constipation relief

Constipation is frequently caused by dehydration. Drinking water is an excellent strategy to treat and avoid constipation in many circumstances.  Keeping yourself hydrated softens your feces and makes it simpler to pass. Drinking water adequately helps to maintain a regular bowel movement. Have you noticed that the elderly vastly suffer from constipation? Inadequate water intake is one of the contributing factors to this.

 2) Water helps to deliver oxygen

Human blood is more than 90% water, and one of its roles is to transport oxygen to all regions of the body. The body needs enough water so as to perform the role as dehydration hinders it.

3) Water improves the health and appearance of the skin

Dehydration makes the skin become more sensitive to skin diseases and premature aging. We need adequate water intake to have healthy skin.

4) Water flushes body waste
 

Adequate water intake is needed in the processes of sweating and the removal of urine and feces.

5) Water helps maintain blood pressure

A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.

 6) Water helps in weight loss

If drinking water is replaced with sugary drinks, alcohol, and sodas one might lose weight. If water is also taken before or in between meals, it gives a sense of fullness and this reduces overeating.

Where can we get water?

The majority of the water needed by the body is obtained from portable water (H2O). Other sources include high-water-content foods like fruits, juices, and drinks. Examples of these sources listed are oranges, watermelon, tomatoes, zobo drinks, pepper soups, etc.

When should you drink water?

It is important to drink water adequately whether thirsty or not.  As much as thirst is a good indicator that the body needs some water but you should not wait till thirsty to avoid dehydration, especially for the aged who have lost their sense of thirst and no longer understands their body physiology.  Also drink enough water throughout the day for clear, pale urine, during excessive heat,  intense physical activity, sweating, and to compensate for the lost or extra needed fluids.

The recommended intake of water for Health Benefits

Health experts recommended that women should drink about 10-11.5 glasses (2.5 – 2.7 liters) of water per day, while males should drink about 13.5 – 15.5 glasses ( 3.5-3.7 liters). This quantity is for individuals who do not have water intake restrictions. People with certain impairments such as renal disease or oedema should follow their medical recommendations.

In conclusion, make sure you drink enough water to meet up with body daily needs. Drinking water adequately “is a necessity not an option”.