We hear it time and time again, water is the nectar of life. Since it’s free, and we are “supposed” to consume water, it tends to be something we take for granted.
“I’m not thirsty”
“It makes me have to go pee”
“I’m too busy”
Why is water SO darn important to our overall health?
Our bodies are made up of around 65% water depending on fat content. In fact, most of our vital organs are comprised mainly of water – like our heart, brain, and muscles.
Water is the glue that holds our bodies together. It’s the blood that flows through our veins. It’s the oil that keeps our “engines” lubricated.
Doctors recommend that we consume a minimum of 88 ounces of water a day – roughly eight full glasses. Luckily, coffee and tea count toward this number, as do high water-content fruits and veggies like apples and cucumbers.
I took a deep dive into water’s magical powers, and I think you will be surprised and smitten by what I discovered:
8 reasons why water is so vital for our health:
2. Moistens tissues. Water helps to keep tissues moist, including the lining of the mouth, throat, and eyes. This helps to prevent dryness and irritation.
3. Protects organs and tissues. Water helps to protect organs and tissues from damage. For example, water helps to cushion the brain and spinal cord.
4. Carries nutrients and oxygen to cells. Water helps to carry nutrients and oxygen to cells throughout the body. This is essential for cell function and metabolism.
5. Removes waste products. Water helps to remove waste products from the body through urination, sweating, and bowel movements. This helps to keep the body’s systems running smoothly.
6. Hair: Water makes up about 25% of the weight of a hair strand. It helps to keep hair hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry, brittle, and damaged. Water also helps to carry nutrients to the hair follicles, which are responsible for hair growth.
7. Skin: Water makes up about 64% of the weight of the skin. It helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry, flaky, and itchy. Water also helps protect the skin from the sun, wind, damage, and pollution d.
8. Nails: Water makes up about 15% of the weight of nails. It helps to keep nails strong and flexible and prevents them from becoming brittle and breaking. Water also helps to carry nutrients to the nail bed, which is the area where nails grow.
Now that I have your attention, wanna know the best time to drink water and the easiest habit to add to your repertoire? Chug water first thing in the morning.
Imagine not drinking water, tea, or other liquids for the next eight hours. That’s essentially what we do while we sleep.
Other ways to promote water drinking during the day:
- Carry a water bottle with you. This will make it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Set a reminder on your phone. This will help you remember to drink water throughout the day.
- Make water your go-to drink. Instead of reaching for sugary drinks, reach for water first.
- Add flavor to your water. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, add a slice of lemon or lime, a few drops of fruit juice, or a splash of sparkling water.
- Eat water-rich foods. Some foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are high in water content. Eating these foods can help you stay hydrated.
Here’s a helpful rundown of the best hydrating fruits and veggies to consider when snacking:
- Watermelon: Watermelon is about 92% water, making it one of the most hydrating fruits available. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of cancer.
- Strawberries: Strawberries are about 91% water and are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They are a delicious and refreshing way to stay hydrated.
- Cucumber: Cucumbers are about 95% water and are a good source of vitamin K. They are a crunchy and refreshing vegetable that can be eaten on their own or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are about 94% water and are a good source of vitamins A and C. They are versatile vegetables that can be eaten on their own, cooked, or used in sauces, salsas, and soups.
- Zucchini: Zucchini is about 94% water and is a good source of vitamins A and C. It is a mild-flavored vegetable that can be eaten on its own, cooked, or used in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
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