Water 101: The Health Benefits of Hydration
Have you had enough to drink today? If you’re like most of us, probably not. Doctors estimate that 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. The summer heat is the perfect reminder to drink up. Today, let’s explore the fascinating science behind water and our health, and the incredible health benefits of hydration.
Without maintaining proper hydration levels, the strength, efficacy and health of every organ and system in your body will suffer.
1. You Are What You Drink
Water is, quite simply, the fundamental building blocks of every system in your body.
In fact, according to scientists at the U.S. Geological Service, up to 60 percent of your body is comprised of water.
For example, your brain is 73 percent water and your muscles are 79% water.
Without maintaining proper hydration levels, the strength, efficacy and health of every organ and system in your body will suffer.
2. Your Immune System Needs It
We often think of the spring and fall as peak cold and flu season, but summer colds affect millions of people every year.
And colds and flus are just the start. Unlike you and your family, bacteria and viruses don’t think of summer as a time for a vacation. So it’s important to keep your immunity strong all-year long.
That’s why it’s important to take immunity support supplements, such as BioPro-Plus 500, to help with a proactive defense. And when you’re taking your immunity supplements, use that as a reminder to drink more water.
One study found that losing less than 2% of your body’s fluids can have immediate, negative impacts on your mood and your concentration.
Your brain plays a central role, literally, in your health.
It oversees the functioning of every system in your body, to say nothing about the benefits of being able to think, brainstorm and problem solve quickly and creatively.
And dehydration wreaks immediate havoc on your brain health.
One study found that losing less than 2% of your body’s fluids can have immediate, negative impacts on your mood and your concentration.
And a similar study found that being dehydrated reduced your ability to remember things, and also increased feelings of stress and anxiety.
A general rule of thumb is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to start.
There is no “right” amount of water to drink, because everyone’s needs are different. For example, those who live in a hot climate need more water than those who don’t, and if you’re outdoors or exercising, your hydration levels rise. The medications you’re on may also impact your hydration needs.
A general rule of thumb is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to start. And the best clue lies in your bathroom. The next time you go to the bathroom, check the color of your urine. A clear or pale color indicates that you’re likely drinking adequate amounts of fluids.
And what exactly should you be drinking? Water is what nature intended for us, but some people find it difficult to stay hydrated just with water alone, especially if they don’t find the taste of plain water appealing.
Try these hydration tips:
Why You Should Be Drinking More Water Right Now
Without maintaining proper hydration levels, the strength, efficacy and health of every organ and system in your body will suffer.
“The 600 lymph nodes and extensive network of lymph vessels throughout your body keep you from getting sick by transporting immune cells and flushing out dead bacteria,” reports Alive health magazine.The publication explains that your lymph nodes need water to keep up their lymph fluid levels to efficiently flush out disease from your body. “Drinking water is also the best way to keep your mucus membranes hydrated,” points out the magazine. When you’re dehydrated, these critical membranes -- which play a first-defense role in your immune system -- dry out and aren’t able to defend you as effectively, leaving you at a higher risk of getting sick. 3. Your Brain Will Thank You
One study found that losing less than 2% of your body’s fluids can have immediate, negative impacts on your mood and your concentration.
How Much (And What) To Drink?
A general rule of thumb is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to start.
- Aim to enjoy zero- to no-calorie beverages, because liquid calories are often what sabotages people’s health and weight goals the most. Ideas include sparkling water, water flavored with a splash of natural juice, or water infused mint or lemon!
- Eat hydrating foods. Great examples include leafy greens, fruit (especially water-rich fruit like watermelon or citrus fruits), and soups or stews.
- Reduce foods or drinks that make you more dehydrated. Examples include coffee, foods high in salt, and alcohol.