The Often Forgotten Importance of Drinking Water

Water is essential for good health, yet it's often overlooked. Many people don't drink enough water, and this can have a negative impact on their health. In this article, we will explore the forgotten importance of drinking water.

Hydration

Drinking water is essential for staying hydrated. When you don't drink enough water, your body becomes dehydrated, which can lead to a range of health problems. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and constipation. It can also affect your mood and cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate and think clearly. Experts say that once your mouth is dry you’re already dehydrated. If you do become dehydrated you may not feel like drinking water and doing so may make you feel nauseated but you must try to drink as much as you can. Once you become dehydrated even drinking water may not bring immediate relief but eventually you will feel better. The easiest way to tell if your severely dehydrated is it feels like a hangover. After all that’s all a hangover really is-dehydration.

Digestion

Drinking water is also important for good digestion. Water helps to break down food and move it through your digestive system. Without enough water, you may experience constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues. Drinking water before and during meals can also help you feel full, which can prevent overeating and aid in weight management. Studies have shown that drinking water after eating helps some, but does not aid in digestion nearly as much as drinking water before or during a meal.

Kidney Function

Drinking enough water is important for good kidney function. Your kidneys help to remove waste and excess fluids from your body, and they need water to do this effectively. When you don't drink enough water, your kidneys may not function properly, which can lead to urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and other kidney problems.

Skin Health

Drinking water is also important for good skin health. Your skin needs water to stay hydrated and maintain its elasticity. Without enough water, your skin can become dry, itchy, and prone to wrinkles and other signs of aging. Drinking enough water can help keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.

Joint Health

Drinking water is essential for good joint health. Your joints need water to stay lubricated and function properly. When you don't drink enough water, your joints can become stiff and painful. Drinking enough water can help prevent joint pain and stiffness, and may even help reduce the risk of arthritis.

Exercise Performance and Endurance

Drinking enough water is important for good exercise performance. When you exercise, you lose water through sweat, and you need to replace this water to stay hydrated. When you don't drink enough water, you may experience fatigue, cramps, and other symptoms that can affect your exercise performance. Drinking enough water before, during, and after exercise can help you stay hydrated and perform at your best.

In conclusion, drinking enough water is essential for good health. Water is important for hydration, digestion, kidney function, skin health, joint health, and exercise performance. Yet, many people don't drink enough water and overlook its importance. To maintain good health, it's important to drink enough water throughout the day. The amount of water you need depends on a variety of factors, including your age, sex, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, it's recommended that adults drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

However, some people may need more or less depending on their individual needs. By making water a priority, you can improve your health and well-being in a number of ways. It’s also important to remember that drinking too much water is dangerous but most of us will never come close to drinking dangerous amounts. It’s best to simply listen to your body.

Note* this article was originally published on medium by me but has been slightly edited.