Importance of Hydration

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Hydration

Hydration is the absorption of water by the body, as every part of the body needs it to function, depending on how much is available for its usage. All the parts of the body such as organs, cells and tissues need water to do their role in the functioning of the body like lubricating joints, disposing  waste products and maintaining temperature. 

The body absorbs water mainly through drinking water and other liquids. It also absorbs water through food as well. Factors affecting hydration include climate, physical activity and age. The body also loses its water content through regular bodily functions like urinating and breathing. All the water content lost has to be replaced to stay hydrated.

Importance of Hydration

• One of the most common symptoms of dehydration is headaches. Drinking water can help with getting rid of these headaches. 

• The common form of urinary stones is kidney stones, which form in the kidney. Urinary stones are painful clumps of mineral crystals that are found in the urinary system. Enough water intake might prevent the recurrence of these stones. When a person consumes enough water, the volume of urine passing through the kidneys increases. This prevents the formation of the crystallized clumps as this dilutes the concentration of the minerals. 

• Not drinking enough water can affect the body in many ways, such as altered body temperature, increased fatigue, and reduced motivation. It might also affect your physical activities as working out might feel much harder both mentally and physically. This happens even more during high heat or intense exercise. Hydrating to the right amount has been shown to prevent this and lessen the oxidative stress that happens during high-intensity training. 

• Constipation is a common problem among people; it is characterized by irregular bowel movements. Drinking more water has been shown to improve constipation; it is, in fact, recommended as a part of the treatment protocol. Drinking less water when one suffers from constipation has been shown to increase the intensity of the disease. Water that is rich in sodium and magnesium has been shown to improve bowel movements. 

• The brain reacts significantly to the hydration level. Even mild dehydration tends to affect the brain functions. Studies also show that it might affect memory, cause fatigue, changes in mood and increase anxiety. 

• Drinking the right amount of water at the right time helps you reduce weight. This might be due to the fact that water can boost your metabolic rate and increase satiety. Some studies have found that extra water intake before each meal, that is, three times per day, has been shown to aid in weight loss. 

How much is enough hydration?

It is not enough to drink water only when one is feeling thirsty, as thirst is the result of dehydration, which means that it is already suffering from the effects. In the same way, drinking water only till the thirst is satisfied isn’t enough as well. The best way to know if the body has enough water content is by the colour of the urine. Pale straw-coloured urine indicates that the body has enough water content, and dark yellow colour urine indicates the lack of water content. Having a water bottle with you at all times may help you stay hydrated enough.

What drinks count as hydrating?

Any drink is considered hydrating. But water is the best source to hydrate yourself. It is readily available almost anywhere. Other drinks like tea, juice, milk, coffee and even soft drinks contribute to the total fluid intake. Some of these drinks contain sugar, vitamins, fat and minerals. Even though they are good for the body, excess intake of these fluids might pose a risk rather than an advantage. Frequently choosing drinks with higher levels of sugar will also cause dental issues. It can cause type 2 diabetes as well. So, sticking with water at most times and having one glass of other drinks per day are healthy ways to balance out fluid intake. 

Conclusion

The most important part of a diet is good hydration. Drinking adequate water ensures the proper functioning of all the parts of the body. It not only ensures the physical wellness of the body but also helps the mind concentrate. It is a good habit to keep a water bottle with you at all times. 

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