We have all heard it so many times – sufficient water intake is an inevitable step towards the preservation of health. But how many of us really know the impact of water on our health? Adequate water intake is crucial. Why? Let’s start with the fact that 70 percent of the human body is made up of water. So – sudden changes, insufficient hydration, and other similar factors can greatly affect the overall state of our bodies.
The entire human body, including every organ and every cell, functions thanks to water. Water is the main operator of all processes in the human organism – which further tells us that the impact of water on our health is both real and large. But what is the proper way to keep hydrated?
How much water do we need on a daily basis?
The amount of water that a body needs to function normally varies and depends on multiple factors. Age, gender, health, regular physical activities and everyday lifestyle are the main factors that affect the very amount of water that is necessary for the normal functioning of tissues and organs in humans. However, if you are unable to calculate the exact number, you can use the median value – 3l for men and 2.2l for women. This is on a daily bases, of course. If the body is exposed to efforts greater than usual, the amount of water you drink should be proportionately increased. Opposite of that, in the event of a reduction in the amount of physical effort, you do not need to reduce the intake of water – because only a heavily increased amount can be harmful.
The correct water intake is the key
Although the intake of water is almost always advisable and almost never harmful, there are moments in which water intake is more or less recommended. If you decide to calculate your water intake for a particular diet or to improve your general health, there are some guidelines for when you should drink more fluids and when you should avoid it.
The most correct way to introduce water into the body is very simple – during the day, evenly and without exaggeration. Your body will let you know when it needs more water and all you really need to do is listen to your own biorhythm. What is recommended is that you avoid water intake during and immediately after a meal, as it can slow digestion.
Is bottled water a better choice?
To be frank – yes and no. Why not? If you choose to consume only bottled water, you will need to pay attention to some details. One of them is the number of minerals it has in it. It is not advisable to drink just a single type of water – at least not in the long run. Why? Bottled water has the same chemical composition at all times, and our body needs a diversified input from them. For this reason, it’s a far better idea to change the type of water you drink occasionally – even if you drink a particular type due to your health condition. As with any other aspect, to stay healthy, the key is a balance.
The impact of water on our health
Water is indispensable for absolutely every cleaning process in our organism – directly or indirectly. Reduced water intake is manifested through symptoms such as – fatigue, poor concentration, loss of appetite, swelling of the joints, migraines… Hence, regular water intake is a key factor for a balanced functioning of the organism and its insufficient intake disrupts all processes.
- Water helps us to remove the unnecessary and harmful substances from our bodies.
- In order to transfer nutrients such as proteins and minerals to different organs, we use water for the transport.
- When we are well-hydrated, the amount of oxygen in the blood increases, which leads to a better use of nutrients, and thus to an increased level of energy.
- In addition to helping the digestion of food, water is also used to access nutrients and stored energy.
- Water flows from the cell to the cell, thus maintaining the natural balance of electrolytes.
- During perspiration, our body uses water for cooling purposes.
In addition to the above-mentioned functions, water still has many others. And most importantly – they are all interlinked, which leads us to conclude that the impact of water on our health is indeed crucial.
