Close to 60 percent of our body is made up of water, which shows how important it is to keep the body hydrated. The portal Medical News Today listed 15 benefits of drinking water.
1. Water lubricates joints
The cartilage found in the joints and discs of the spine contains close to 80 percent water. Prolonged dehydration can lead to joint pain.
2. Produces saliva and mucus
Saliva helps digest food and keeps the mouth, nose and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean and reduces tooth decay.
3. It supplies the body with oxygen
Blood contains more than 90 percent water and it delivers oxygen to different parts of the body.
4. Improves the health and beauty of the skin
Dehydration makes the skin sensitive, leads to its premature aging and the formation of wrinkles.
5. Covers the brain, spinal cord and other sensitive tissues
Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. Water is involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.
6. Regulates body temperature
Water is stored in the middle layers of the skin and comes to the surface as sweat when the body warms up. As it evaporates, the body cools. Sufficient amounts of water can reduce physical effort if heat stress occurs during exercise.
7. The digestive system depends on water
The intestines need water to function properly. Dehydration leads to digestive problems, constipation and excessive acidity in the stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.
8. Flushes out body waste
Water is needed for the process of sweating, urination and defecation.
9. Helps control blood pressure
Lack of water makes the blood thicker, which increases the pressure.
10. The airways need water
When the body is dehydrated, the airways are restricted as the body tries to reduce water loss. It makes asthma and allergies worse.
11. Makes minerals and nutrients available
They dissolve in water, which allows them to reach various parts of the body.
12. Prevents kidney damage
The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Not enough water can cause kidney stones and other problems.
13. Improves performance during exercise
Some scientists claim that drinking more water improves performance during exercise. What has been established is that dehydration reduces performance and you cannot exercise for more than 30 minutes.
14. Weight loss
Water helps in losing weight if you consume it instead of sugary juices and carbonated drinks. If you drink a glass of water before eating, you will feel full and eat less food, which will help you lose weight.
15. It reduces the chances of you being hungover
When "partying", unsweetened mineral water with ice and lemon alternating with alcoholic drinks can prevent excessive alcohol consumption, as well as morning headaches, reports klix.ba.
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