9 Benefits of Staying Hydrated

M any people are unaware of the importance of water and the benefits of staying hydrated. It is said that about 75% of the American population suffers from dehydration. Consuming plentiful amounts of water is imperative for fostering good overall health.

The significance of water can be defined by the fact that  60% of the body’s weight is made up of water and in its absence, a person is most likely to die within days via dehydration.

Therefore, the benefits of hydration have been listed below to get you back on track for recording the daily number of glasses you drink. 

1. Enhanced Brain Performance

Even a 2% loss in the fluid can negatively impact mood, memory, reaction time, and concentration. Increasing the daily water intake can positively impact cognition, balance your emotions, and even counter feelings of anxiety. This is crucial for seniors who are at greater risk for both dehydration and impaired cognitive function.

2. Digestive Harmony

Water aids in regular digestion. Insufficient water intake could result in irregular bowel movements, bloating, heartburn, gas, and other discomforts and illnesses. An increase in fluid intake will help prevent such discomforts and protect you from illnesses. Drinking plenty of water especially mineral water is good for health as it helps smoothen digestion by breaking down soluble fibers.

3. Removal Of Waste

Water aids in the removal of body fluids by the liver and kidneys through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements. 

4. Weight Loss

As an alternative to snacks, drinking a glass of water prior to and in between meals will make you feel full and also assists in raising your metabolism. Studies have proven that drinking water prior to each meal produced a significant loss in body mass index, body composition, and body weight.

Based on results from another study, a 1% increase in water intake by adults resulted in the consumption of fewer calories including a reduction in the total intake of cholesterol, sodium, saturated fat, and sugar.

5. Reduced Joint Pain

80% of the cartilage in our joints is composed of water. Thus, staying hydrated provides lubrication for the joints, which assists in reducing friction by forming a "cushion" between the bones. As a result, the joints move more smoothly and cause reduced aches.

6.  Kidney Stone Prevention

Since water supports the dilution of mineral concentration in the urinary tract, an increase in the consumption of water could prevent the formation of kidney stones. Additionally, water aids in flushing out dangerous bacteria from the bladder, therefore, averting urinary tract infections (UTIs).

7. Fewer Headaches

Headaches are caused by the contraction of the brain away from the skull. Loss of fluid or insufficient fluid intake can cause these contractions to occur, resulting in headaches and migraines. Being persistent in staying well-hydrated can help combat headaches.

8. Healthier Heart

Blood is mainly composed of H₂O. Insufficient water consumption causes the blood to become concentrated, which can lead to a disparity in vital minerals (electrolytes). The heart relies on these minerals, like potassium and sodium to function correctly. 

9. Increase In Energy

Dehydration can diminish the flow of oxygen to the brain and compel the heart to work with more difficulty to pump oxygen throughout the body. The outstanding energy required can in turn lead to feelings of tiredness, sluggishness, and reduced focus. Therefore, drinking more water can provide the perfect kickstart to your day.

In order to prevent dehydration, it is critical to incorporate eight glasses a day and a dietary plan which is rich in water. Moreover, it is always recommended to have a conversation with your doctor about your medical history, medications, and health conditions to customize a hydration plan for you. In certain scenarios of exercise or physical activity, vomiting, diarrhea, and hot weather conditions, good hydration is a pivotal requirement.

Conclusion

The symptoms of dehydration in children are an irritated mood, no wet diapers within three hours, a dry mouth and tongue, no tears when crying, sunken eyes and cheeks, and a shrinking of the soft spot at the top of the head. The symptoms of dehydration in adults include confusion, dizziness, fatigue, extreme thirst, and less frequent urination. On the other hand, elderly people may not experience a feeling of thirst but may still be dehydrated if their urine is of a dark color. So, grab a glass now and drink away!