Five Things Your Body Is Telling You About Water
Water is vital to our health. Our brain and muscles are 75% water, and our blood is 92% H2O. But many individuals do not consume sufficient amounts of water on a daily basis, complaining it is too dull and tasteless to drink all day long. Others mistakenly think that they can substitute a glass of water with various other beverages, a majority of which contain excess calories, sugar, and chemicals that are a detriment our health.
There are varying opinions on the amount of water we need to drink, however, the standard recommendation is eight glasses of water a day. You can try a little natural water flavoring to make meeting your daily requirement more palatable.
Because our bodies are continually expelling water, for example when we sweat or go to the bathroom, and require a constant supply of water for proper cell and organ functioning, it is imperative that we replace the water we eliminate regularly. The following list for just a glimpse of what can happen when your body is thirsty for H2O.
1. Exhaustion. Water is our essential energy drink. Being dehydrated causes enzymes in our bodies to slow down causing fatigue, cramps, confusion and a host of other symptoms.
2. High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol. When we do not have the proper amount of water in our bloodstream, our blood thickens and has a harder time flowing, which results in higher blood pressure. Cholesterol is produced in our bodies to prevent water loss, so hydrating is one way to lower harmful cholesterol levels.
3. Skin Ailments. Eliminating toxins from our systems is vital for the maintenance of good health. When we are dehydrated, it is harder to remove toxins from the skin. This can result in dermatitis, premature wrinkles, skin discoloration and even psoriasis.
4. Constipation and Digestive Issues. Our colon needs water to push waste through the intestines. Without proper water levels, waste moves slowly and can stop, resulting in constipation. A water deficiency can also lead to acid reflux and ulcers.
5. Weight gain. Without proper elimination, your body will react by storing toxins in fat cells, causing you to gain weight.
In short, without proper amounts of water in your system, your body stops working. Keeping your body hydrated is the simplest way to maintain your optimal health and wellness.
Ashley Andrews is a San Diego-based freelance writer who blogs on a wide range of green living, business, health and technology topics.
See also:
Water — The Elixir Of Life
Only One Liquid Is Necessary To Control Weight And Reduce Sugar, Sodium And Fat
