We’re likely all aware of the many health benefits of drinking water. In addition to being a great source of hydration, water is the best fuel for your body, and it keeps your skin, hair and nails looking healthy. Water also aids in the digestion of food, and will help make you feel full and provide a sense of relaxation.
Overview
It is believed that drinking water will improve your skin, hair and nails, as well as aid with digestion. However, many of us don’t realize that water consumption also benefits our teeth. Research has shown that drinking water will help protect against tooth decay, and also that there is a link between the acidity of water and the speed at which dental decay occurs.
In addition, recent studies have shown that drinking water has positive effects on the pH of the mouth. Increasing the pH of the mouth is associated with a reduction in bacteria and the cells that make them, leading to an improved mouth environment.
Lastly, water will help to maintain optimum fluid levels in your body, which can help to promote weight loss. Having excess fluid in the body increases the amount of sugars that are circulated in the blood, and could cause you to put on weight if they are not used up.
The truth about your heart
As with your body, drinking enough water can have a positive impact on your heart health. As well as helping to improve blood flow, regular water consumption is also linked to the ‘Thyroid Hormone Secretion’ hormone, which can promote healthy cardiovascular function.
How Much Water Should You Drink Per Day? What is the body’s optimal water consumption?
We need enough water to survive, but how much does the body actually need? The question is harder to answer than you think because there are multiple physiological factors that determine when we need to drink. Your metabolism, body size and the total amount of fluid you consume all affect your body’s need for water. Here’s a look at a few things you should consider when determining the right amount of water to drink every day.
Your physical activity levels
In general, your physical activity level dictates how much water you need to drink. One of the main factors determining your water intake is how active you are. If you’re a couch potato, you need more fluids to help maintain hydration. On the other hand, if you’re getting plenty of exercise, you don’t need as much water as someone who spends a lot of time sitting at a desk all day.
Total body water
Your body also maintains its water content by mixing its water with the tissues and organs that need it. To do this, it exchanges fluids with its cells. When your liver is working well, it can do this quickly and effectively, but when there’s a problem, it can take much longer. This is why you should pay attention to your urine color when you think you’re not properly hydrated. The color should be light yellow or straw-colored, which means that your body is making about six liters of urine per day.
Barometric pressure
When your body loses a significant amount of fluid, it takes time for it to rehydrate. Therefore, if you’re in a dry environment, you will experience muscle cramps and cramping in your legs. When you sit in a sauna or the heat of the sun, your body loses fluids much more rapidly. This is why you shouldn’t be drinking a lot of water during those times.
Your age
Also, your body’s need for water changes over time. As you get older, your body’s systems will require more water. This is because the body is doing less to remove the nutrients that you eat. Your kidneys are also working harder to filter your blood, so they need to process a lot of water.
Budget for your specific needs
Many people over-hydrate when they drink too much water. To avoid that, you’ll have to monitor your fluid intake carefully. Check your urine color to make sure you’re drinking enough. If you find that you’re in danger of dehydration, you can also consume a teaspoon of salt per day to help your body process its water.
Get an expert health consultation
If you have questions about your body’s needs, the next step is to speak with an expert health care professional. Your doctor can give you some guidelines for getting your daily needs met and give you guidance about how much water you should drink every day.
