7 Reasons to Drink Water
We all know that drinking water is good for our overall wellbeing… but do we really know how good or why?
1. Helps to maximise physical performance, especially during intense exercise or high heat. Dehydration can lead to altered body temperature control, reduced motivation, and increased fatigue. Optimal hydration may even reduce the oxidative stress that occurs during high intensity exercise. Not really surprising considering that muscle is about 80% water
2. Significantly affects energy levels and brain function. Studies show even mild dehydration, such as the loss of 1–3% of body weight, can impair many aspects of brain function. It is also detrimental to working memory and may lead to increased feelings of anxiety and fatigue
3. May help prevent and treat headaches, which is one of the most common symptoms of dehydration
4. May help prevent and ease constipation. Mineral water may be a particularly beneficial beverage for those with constipation. Studies have shown that mineral water that’s rich in magnesium and sodium improves bowel movement frequency and consistency in people with constipation
5. May help treat kidney stones (clumps of mineral crystal that form in the urinary system and specifically in the kidneys). Higher fluid intake increases the volume of urine passing through the kidneys. This dilutes the concentration of minerals, so they’re less likely to crystallise and thus form clumps
6. Helps prevent hangovers. Alcohol is a diuretic, so it makes you lose more water than you take in, which can lead to dehydration. Although it isn’t the main cause of a hangover, dehydration can cause thirst, fatigue, headache, and dry mouth.
NOTE: A good tip is to drink a glass of water between drinks and have at least one big glass of water before going to bed
7. Can aid weight loss. This is because sufficient water intake can increase satiety and boost metabolic rate. Timing is key. Drinking water half an hour before meals is the most effective as it can make you feel more full so that you eat fewer calories
