IMPORTANCE OF STAYING HYDRATED

Drinking the right amount of water is essential, not just in summer, but equally vital in winter months, in order to maintain our fitness and wellbeing. Our bodies are perpetually losing water throughout the day; much of this loss occurs unconsciously, through breathing and sweating, including in cooler conditions.

Thus, it is easy to miscalculate how much water we need to consume to maintain a health water balance.

How much do I need?
Many people only drink water if they feel particularly thirsty, but by the time your body signals to your brain that it needs water it’s already lost around 2% of its total water content, meaning you’re in the early stages of dehydration.

Drinking at least 2L of water a day is a simple step towards a healthier lifestyle, however the amount each person should drink to offset fluid loss will vary according to size, activity level and dependant on prevailing weather conditions.

REASONS TO DRINKING
ENOUGH WATER EVERY DAY

Body Fluids. Your body is composed of about 60% water. The functions of these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circultion, creation of saliva, transporttion of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature.

Calories. For years, dieters have been drinking lots of water as a weight loss strategy. While water doesn’t have any magical effect on weight loss, but does give a ‘fuller feeling’ and substituting it for higher calorie beverages can certainly help.

Muscles. Cells that don’t maintain their balance of fluids and electrolytes will diminish, which can result in muscle fatigue, effecting everyday performance.

Skin. Your skin contains plenty of water, and performs as a protective barrier to prevent excess fluid loss. But don’t expect over-hydration to erase wrinkles or fine lines!

Kidneys. Body fluids transport waste products in and out of our cells; a greater volume of hydration will ensure that waste matter is able to pass through the kidneys to be excreted in the form of urine.

Digestive System. The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers