Water is, without a doubt, one of the most important elements in the world today. In fact, some would argue that water is in fact, THE most important element in the world due to the fact that without it, life on Earth wouldn’t be possible.
Without getting into a debate on which is in fact the most important element, we can all agree on the fact that water is hugely important, and without it, none of us would be here. Staying well hydrated is therefore hugely important, yet it’s something that a lot of people struggle with.
The human body itself is comprised of more than 60% water, and without it we simply wouldn’t function correctly. This is why staying hydrated is vital.
Here’s a look at the importance of hydration, and how to stay well hydrated.
Why is hydration so important?
Kicking things off, we’ll look at a few reasons why staying hydrated is so important. These include:
Improved oxygen delivery
One reason to stay well hydrated is due to the fact that water can assist with oxygen transportation around the body.
Oxygen is transported to the cells via your blood, and your blood itself is made up of more than 90% water. Dehydration will therefore reduce the amount of oxygen carried around the body via the blood.
Dehydration causes headaches
If you ever find yourself suffering with persistent headaches, ask yourself whether or not you’ve had enough water to drink.
Dehydration causes headaches which can be very painful and can make life very difficult. Staying well hydrated will ensure that you are far less likely to suffer with a headache.
Improved athletic performance
When we exercise, we sweat and lose fluids and electrolytes. This lack of minerals and fluids can leave the muscles fatigued, it can increase lactic acid build ups, and it can cause muscle cramping. From an athletic standpoint, none of this is ideal.
Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water is ideal, though, because it will ensure the muscles work as they should, it will prevent cramping, and it will buffer lactic acid productions.
Great for the kidneys
In truth, water is essential for all of your organs, yet it is the kidneys in particular which benefit greatly from water.
Water ensures the kidneys function as they should, and so a lack of hydration can put you at risk of kidney damage.
Tips on staying hydrated
The average male should drink around 2.5 litres of water each day, whereas the average woman should be consuming roughly 2 litres of water a day. Failing to do so can put you at risk of all kinds of health issues and ailments.
Not everybody is able to drink litres of water each day, so here are some handy tips for people looking to stay well hydrated.
- Eat foods with a higher water content such as watermelon, strawberries, other fruits, and cucumbers
- Sip on water throughout the day
- Drink electrolyte-rich drinks
- Make soups and smoothies
- Try making flavoured water with fruits and herbs if you dislike the natural taste of water
