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Drinking water is a healthy choice for satisfying your thirst all the time. Water does not have any calories or sugar which can harm your body and teeth. You are probably fully aware that consuming plenty of water in the course of the day is good for you. That said, you might not know how much water you should consume daily to retain your health.
The Benefits of Drinking Plenty of Water
You should understand that your body is made up of approximately 50 to 70% body weight. Due to this high percentage, your body counts on water in order to survive. When you drink plenty of water, you will be much healthier.
When you drink plenty of water it benefits your cells, organs, and tissues to properly function. The following are benefits your body will get from drinking water:
- Body waste is removed through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.
- Water keeps your body temperature normal.
- Water lubricates and cushions your joints.
- Water protects your sensitive tissues.
As you probably know, water keeps you hydrated. If you are not properly hydrated, it can lead to mood changes, unclear thinking, and cause your body to overheat. Water also prevents constipation and kidney stones. Your body must retain a healthy temperature which is provided by water.
How to Know You Are Consuming Enough Water?
The general belief is 8 glasses of water each day, but in reality, you should drink water to satisfy your thirst and listen to your body to know the right amount for you. Everyone is not the same therefore it’s important to listen to your body and always drink water when you are thirsty.
Listening to your body will give you the answer you are looking for. Your body can change its needs on a daily basis. What worked yesterday may not be the right amount today. Your body is forever sending out signs, so pay attention.
Signs You’re Not Consuming Enough Water
Because water makes up approximately 60% of your body weight, you must have enough water in your body to maintain a healthy weight and produce body fluids. Water contributes to regular bowel movements, desirable muscle performance, and healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Unhealthy Looking Skin
Water hydrates your skin in order to give you a glowing, healthy appearance. It also flushes out many toxins that can be harmful to your body. Beauty products can help somewhat, but if you are not getting good results from them, start drinking more water.
Your Mouth Is Constantly Dry
If you are not drinking enough water, the mucous membranes in your mouth will be dry due to a lack of saliva. You will have difficulty talking, swallowing, and even breathing. When you start drinking the right level of water, these problems will disappear.
Decreased Urination
If you are dehydrated, your kidneys will attempt to retain as much fluid as they can to function properly. When you are not bringing in enough water, your urine will appear darker in color, have a strong odor, and will be cloudier in appearance. These signs should tell you to start drinking more water. When you increase your water intake, your urine will be clearer, lighter in color, and have less odor.
Suffering from Illnesses
Water will flush waste and bacteria out of your body and fight diseases and infections. If you are continually getting sick, you probably need to increase your water intake. You might suffer from a throbbing headache if you are dehydrated. After increasing your intake of water, your headache should disappear. If that doesn’t work, you should consult with your doctor as something else might be causing the problem.
Guidelines for Drinking Enough Water
As mentioned earlier, the standard level of water intake during a day is 8 glasses of water. Unfortunately, water intake can vary from one person to another. Here is a basic guideline to help you determine how much water you should consume each day:
- For men, it is recommended to drink a total of 13 cups of water each day or 3 liters.
- For women, 9 cups of water or 2 liters should be consumed each day.
If you are exercising or performing other activities that make you sweat a lot, you need to drink more water to stay hydrated. If you are ill causing you to throw up or run a fever, it will help to increase your intake of water.
Conclusion
Your body is unique but your body needs water. Water is the most important beverage you can bring into your life. Drinking water is an important step to healthy living. If you do not drink enough water, you will become dehydrated and suffer from certain conditions including fatigue, headaches, a weakened immunity system, and dry skin.