Water loss from our bodies occurs at every moment as we lose water through sweat, urine and even breathing. When your total water intake is not equal to or more than your total water loss you can become dehydrated.
Not convinced that water loss is not that much of an issue? Below are ways that water is actually used in your body and contributes to good health.
Water is essential for all body processes
Water help to maintain the body fluid balance. Your body is composed of about 60% water and supports bodily functions such as digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature. When you're low on fluids, this may compromise these functions, which may have a domino effect on other processes in the body.
Water can help control calories
Water contain no empty calories and as a result replacing juice or soda with water can reduce your daily total number of caloric intake.
Other benefits of drinking adequate water include:
- It aids in maintaining normal bowel function
- It helps to maintain proper kidney function
- It can also help to improve skin tone
Now that you have learned some of the benefits of adequate water intake, it is only wise that I let you in on some ways you can ensure you keep your water intake up
- Carry around the water with you. There are a number of durable, nontoxic, reusable containers for holding water
- Eat fruits and vegetables with a high water content such as watermelon, cucumber
- Limit dehydrating foods and drinks that contain caffeine and alcohol as these have a dehydrating effect on the body