The Importance of Staying Hydrated
Our bodies are made up of around 60% water, and we all know that it is vital for life. A human can in fact only survive for three days without water. Yet, despite the fact that clean running water is readily available throughout the developed world, many of us aren’t drinking enough. It is widely recognised that for optimum health we should be drinking at least two litres a day, depending on perspiration through heat and/or exercise. As well as being essential to staying alive, drinking enough water is fundamental to our well-being.
Our organs and all vital systems require water in order to function properly. Dehydration, even at minor levels, can cause various bodily systems to slow down, making us to feel sluggish, tired and irritable. Water is the main component of blood and is essential for carrying nutrients to the cells and taking away waste products.
If our bodies are short on fluids, one of the first signs is a feeling of fatigue. If you’re ever in need of a quick “pick-me-up” try drinking a glass or two of water. It can work as an energy boost and fight off fatigue. Many of us mistake thirst for hunger, so try this before you reach for the snacks, however healthy.
Our brains are actually 85 per cent water, so staying hydrated will help you stay more focussed and alert. Our brain is working when we’re asleep too, sorting out the day’s events and analysing our thoughts and worries, so being able to function to the best of its ability means we feel rejuvenated after a good night’s sleep.
Staying hydrated will vastly improve your skin quality too. Cells deprived of water will shrivel up just like a raisin, and dehydration will actually change the structure of our cells and how they work. The cells in our skin struggle with lack of water more so than others, as they are already exposed to the sun and wind, as well as heating and pollution. However, having ample water in our skin cells plumps them up, giving us healthy, soft and taut looking skin, and an overall more youthful appearance.
To maintain energy levels during a workout, drink a 250ml glass of water before you start and another after you finish. If you’ll be exercising continuously for longer than 30 minutes, drink small amounts every 15 to 30 minutes. Our muscles are 75 per cent water, and a loss of only 3 per cent of this water can cause an 8 per cent loss of function.
Good hydration also helps our joints, as the disks and cartilage that cushion our joints need a certain water content to function properly and prevent pain.
I like to drink a pint of warm water with lemon upon rising every morning to rehydrate and alkalise my body, reducing inflammation and boosting my metabolism. I then sip water throughout the day, and always have a glass on my desk. Carrying a bottle of water with you will help you to top up and keep hydrated. I never leave the house without mine! Eating foods high with high water content such as cucumber, watermelon and strawberries is an excellent and delicious way to top up your water levels throughout the day.