Importance of water

Water

Water is lost daily through various bodily processes and therefore must be replenished continuously so that dehydration does not occur. Humans can exist for several weeks without food, however after several days without water we would not survive. Water is needed by every living cell and almost every process that takes place within the body is dependant on water.

Water is required for practically every bodily function and below are just some of the processes carried out within the body that depend on water to take place:

1. Water is needed in order to break down and digest food, carry nutrients in the bloodstream to where they are needed and to eliminate any waste. Food cannot be digested without water. 2. Water helps digested food pass through the body quicker, preventing constipation and any toxins and waste material from sitting inside the body for too long and accumulating to dangerous levels.
  3. Drinking water replenishes bodily fluids lost through sweating, especially when playing sports and through passing urine.
  4. Water aids circulation.
  5.  Drinking water helps to regulate the temperature of the body and body heat.
  6. Water is needed to keep the kidneys healthy and in working order and prevents urinary infections from occurring.
  7.  Water keeps joints and eyes lubricated, and acts as a protective cushion for tissues and cells. 
   8. It is the basis of all body fluids such as blood and saliva.
   9. Water keeps the skin hydrated, supple and looking healthy and glowing.
  10. Water is the main component of muscles and keeps them toned and firm.
  11. Water dilutes toxins and removes them from the body.
  12. Water aids in the metabolism and elimination of fats. Without water, fat deposits in the body will increase.
   14. Drinking water will alleviate water retention and lessen swelling of hands and feet.
   15. The brain is comprised of a lot of water and therefore needs replenishment to keep it working well and to full capacity. Without water we may lose concentration and suffer headaches and tiredness.
    16. Water dilutes the calcium in our urine, which could crystallise to form kidney stones if the body did not receive enough fluids.

The two litres of water that the body needs through drinking liquids daily can be broken down into 8 - 10 glasses of water or more, if it is a particularly hot day or you have been exercising.