Why Keeping hydrated is crucial for health and well-being.
By Sally Cross, Therapeutic Life & Relationship Coach
at Natural Change Coaching.
Herbal, Health & Menopause Coach.
The generally recommended daily consumption of water is 2.7 litres for women and 3.7 litres for men. Though a more accurate measure would be 30-40 ml for every kilo bodyweight.
Other factors to be considered are water losses through sweating, exercise, hot weather, fever. Here below are reasons why we should ensure we are drinking sufficient water….
Around 60% of our body is made up of water and our blood is made up of over 90% water. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water:
The joints;
Cartilage found in joints and the disks of the spine contain around 80% of water. Insufficient water intake can reduce the joint’s shock-absorbing ability which can lead to joint pain.
Saliva and mucus;
Saliva is needed to ensure good oral health and in the mastication of the food in our mouth. Our body needs a healthy amount of water for the production of saliva and mucus to aid the passage of our food throughout the digestive tract, preventing friction, blockages and damage in our digestive system. Insufficient water intake can lead to heartburn, stomach ulcers, hard stools and constipation.
Saliva and mucus keeps our mouth, nose and eyes moist.
Oxygen delivery;
Blood carries oxygen to every part of our body. We need a good water intake to ensure that our blood is of a healthy consistency and contains a plentiful supply of oxygen.
Skin health;
With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling with loss of elasticity.
Brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues;
Dehydration can affect brain structure, function and the protective cushioning. Water is involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking clearly and reasoning.
Body temperature
Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin which comes to the surface of our body when the body heats up, creating sweat. As the sweat evaporates, it naturally cools the body. When there is too little water in the body, heat storage increases and the individual is less tolerant to heat stress.
Body waste
Water is needed in the processing and excretion of urine and faeces from our body, preventing the build up of toxins.
Blood pressure
Reduced water consumption can cause blood to become thicker, which can affect it’s passage though the circulatory system, increasing blood pressure.
Airways
When dehydrated, airways are restricted in an effort to minimise water loss. This can worsen conditions such as asthma and allergic reactions.
Minerals and nutrients
These nutrients dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to be carried to different parts of our body.
Kidney function
The kidneys regulate fluid and electrolytes in the body. Insufficient water intake can lead to poor function, imbalances in electrolytes, kidney stones and kidney failure, which in turn can lead to anaemia, central nervous system damage, heart failure and affect our immune system function. Build up of waste and fluids within our body.
Performance
Dehydration most certainly adversely affects our performance, both physically and mentally.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s)
A common infection in the body. Insufficient water intake can lead to higher risk of suffering UTI’s and slow down recovery from infections.
Which Beverages?
Water is best, plain and simple!!
Herbal teas, iced teas, unsweetened juices, soups can also be enjoyed and count towards your daily intake. Alcohol does not!!
Cheers!!
By Sally Cross, Natural Change Coaching.
Therapeutic Life & Relationship Coach.
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