- A vital nutrient to the life of every cell, acts first as a building material.
- It regulates our internal body temperature by sweating and respiration.
- The carbohydrates and proteins that our bodies use as food are metabolized and transported by water in the bloodstream.
- Assists digestion by flushing waste mainly through urination and supports the bowel as water helps dissolve fat and finer, aiding the kidney to eliminate waste.
- Acts as a shock absorber for brain, spinal cord, and fetus.
- Forms saliva for good breakdown of food as well as oral hygiene.
- Lubricates joints allowing us to feel younger and more able to move freely.
- Weightloss – by way of staying hydrated and feeling fuller
- Metabolism – assists in fat burning process.
- Mental Health- more energy and feeling better.
According to H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158, the brain and heart are composed of 73% water, and the lungs are about 83% water. The skin contains 64% water, muscles and kidneys are 79%, and even the bones are watery: 31%.
**Wellness Alert – dehydration can cause concentration loss, decreased attention span, memory loss, lack of attention to detail, decreased motor skills, and lack of creativity.
**Water Wellness Newsflash – Drinking ample amount of water helps the immune system fight off the flu, cancer, and other diseases. It also keeps muscles elastic and joints well-lubricated so you have less risk of joint pain.
In general, having a consistent water intake routine will aid the body to stay healthy.
Here is how I ensure to keep up my water intake consistently on a daily basis. [Video]
References
Boschmann, M., Steiniger, J., Hille, U., Tank, J., Adams, F., Sharma, A., Klaus, S., Luft, F. and Jordan, J. (2003). Water-Induced Thermogenesis. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 88(12), pp.6015-6019.
mindbodygreen. (2012). 10 Reasons Why You Should Drink More Water. [online] Available at: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-4287/10-Reasons-Why-You-Should-Drink-More-Water.html [Accessed 14 May 2016].
USGS, Science of a Changing World.Water Properties: The Water in You. Available at https://water.usgs.gov/edu/propertyyou.html