From maintaining skin elasticity to preventing constipation and staying hydrated, drinking water has many health benefits.
We all know that 60 percent of our bodies are made up of water and about 71 percent of the earth’s surface is covered in water. Supporting all forms of life is essential. The many benefits of drinking water include supporting physical performance, preventing bowel-related problems, and improving metabolism.
Water has no calories. Therefore, controlling your appetite also helps you manage your weight. Replacing high-calorie drinks such as sweetened teas and regular sodas with water can provide additional health benefits.
Health Shots reached out to Dr. Ushakiran Sisodia, Registered Dietitian and Clinical Dietitian at Nanavati Max Super Specialty Hospital, Mumbai, to understand the benefits of drinking water.
What are the health benefits of drinking water?
Hydration is important all year round. Don’t forget to drink water, whether it’s cold or hot and humid. When the body loses essential fluids and electrolytes, it can lead to dehydration, which can further impair kidney function, reduce cognitive ability, and reduce physical performance. Proper hydration is therefore not only beneficial, but essential to your overall health and well-being.
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Here are the key health benefits of drinking water, according to experts:
1. Water intake leads to optimal hydration
Drinking enough water every day ensures proper fluid balance in the body and maintains cellular homeostasis.
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2. Water improves metabolic regulation
“Hydration supports important metabolic processes by facilitating the absorption, circulation and transport of nutrients,” say experts.
3. Water supports the digestive system
Drinking enough water promotes food breakdown and absorption, prevents constipation, and promotes a healthy digestive tract.
3. Drinking water can improve cognition
Adequate hydration supports brain function, reduces the risk of cognitive impairment, and increases focus and clarity.
4. Adequate hydration regulates body temperature
“Essential fluids such as water help maintain body temperature through processes such as sweating and are especially essential in tropical climates,” experts say.
5. Water is detoxifying
It helps the kidneys filter waste products efficiently and aids in detoxification.
6. Water helps improve physical performance
“Regular water intake keeps muscles functioning and joints lubricated while reducing the risk of cramps and strains,” experts say.
7. Water promotes skin health
Water provides skin cells with the moisture they need, increases skin elasticity, and reduces dryness and wrinkles.
8. Water reduces the risk of dehydration-related illnesses
“Hydration reduces the risk of ailments such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and certain types of headaches,” experts say.
Also read: World Oral Health Day: 5 Ways Drinking Water Can Improve Dental Health
9. Water Helps Maintain Electrolyte Balance
Regular water intake prevents loss of essential minerals such as sodium, potassium and chloride that are essential for many physiological processes.
How much water should a person drink each day?
Water is also lost during breathing, sweating, urination, and bowel movements. Therefore, it is important to keep your body hydrated by consuming foods and drinks that contain water. For the average man or woman, it is recommended to drink 2.5-3.5 liters of water per day, depending on physical activity and climatic conditions.
For men, it is calculated to consume 3.7 liters of water or fluids per day. However, for women, 2.7 liters of water or hydration is recommended.
What happens when you start drinking enough water?
Drinking enough water has the following effects on your body:
• Supports important metabolic processes
• Helps digest food
• Enhance cognitive function
• Ensures optimum physical output.
Drinking just enough water every day has many health benefits, including skin elasticity, increased energy levels, and fewer dehydration-related illnesses.
So, to protect your health and enhance your well-being, adopt the healthy habit of drinking water daily and after a certain amount of time.
