Hydration: Why It Is Critical for a Healthy Body

Drinking enough water not only helps keep the body well hydrated but also facilitates better nutrients absorption and assimilation after a meal. On the flipside, dehydration can be a severe condition that leads to many health problems such as severe headaches, swollen feet, and heatstroke.

Let’s now focus on some of the incredible benefits of drinking adequate amounts of water, especially before and after your physical activity.

Joint Lubrication

The cartilage in your joints and discs of the spine is made up of 80 percent water. Water deprivations can lead to a reduced joint shock absorption ability, which eventually leads to joint pains and injuries.

Saliva Formation

Saliva is critical for food intake and digestion. It also keeps your mouth, nose, and eyes moist. Drinking water aids the production of saliva and keeps your mouth clean and hygienic. Consuming water instead of beverages can also reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Delivering Oxygen to the Body

Blood is made up of 90 percent water, and keeping your body highly hydrated enhances the blood’s ability to take oxygen to the different parts of your body.

Protects the Brain, Spinal Cord, and Sensitive Tissues

Dehydration can expose your brain tissues and structures to a lot of damage. Drinking enough water ensures your brain functions optimally. Water also plays a critical role in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters.

Regulates Body Temperature

Water stored in the middle layers of the skin typically comes out of the skin’s surface as sweat whenever your body heats up. As the sweat evaporates, it brings a cooling effect on your entire body. When there is little water in your body, the heat stored therein accumulates to expose your body to heat stress.

Aids Digestive System

Your digestive system depends on water to work properly. Dehydration often leads to several digestive issues, such as constipation and an acidic stomach. It also increases your risk of getting stomach ulcers and heartburns. Water is also needed for flushing body wastes such as sweats, urine, and feces.

In a nutshell, drinking enough water can help you achieve your fitness goals. Water helps your muscles stay more energized and lubricates your joints for easier movement.