The Health Ben The benefits of drinking water are well documented; we all know we should be drinking more.
A recent Gallop survey indicated that 60% of the population is dehydrated, and that’s not because we’re not drinking enough fluid, it’s because we’re not drinking enough of the right fluid – water. Our body is 70% water, and our brain is up to 85% water. By the time you start feeling thirsty, you’ve already lost approximately 2% of your body fluid equating to a staggering 20% reduction in your ability to perform, both physically and mentally. One of the most immediate benefits of drinking water, therefore, is maintaining peak performance.
The effects of dehydration Chronic levels of dehydration can also be responsible for a number of ailments including: Fatigue Headaches Dry Skin Aches Poor Concentration
How Much Water Should You Drink?
That’s the burning q uestion; how much water should you drink? According to nutritionists, the optimum amount is one and a half litres a day, but how you drink is important too. To get the full benefits of drinking water, you should try and maintain a steady intake throughout the day. Here are some reasons our body needs water:
1. It lubricates the joints Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shockabsorbing ability, leading to joint pain.
2. It forms saliva and mucus Saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean. Consumed instead of sweetened beverages, it can also reduce tooth decay.
3. It delivers oxygen throughout the body Blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body.
4. It boosts skin health and beauty With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.