Google+1Twitter7Facebook0Water may not be the most exciting, tastiest beverage, but there is no denying the many health benefits of drinking water on a daily basis. With so many beverage options, such as coffee, tea, soda, and juices, most of us actually forget to pour ourselves a glass of water. Yes, I am guilty of choosing coffee over water. In fact, the only time I think of water is when there is no other option or when I am cooking.
However, health experts recommend that adults drink about eight glasses of water each day. This may seem like a lot, but when you consider the amazing benefits of this fluid, you’ll gladly add water to your daily regimen. I completely agree. Especially after being diagnosed with diabetes, I consider water the tastiest beverage and have made it my friend. Of course, the warm weather makes it easy. I think of water as my liquid asset!
“Think of water as a nutrient your body needs that is present in liquids, plain water, and foods. All of these are essential daily to replace the large amounts of water lost each day,” says Joan Koelemay, RD, dietitian for the Beverage Institute, a resource for health professionals on the science of beverages, hydration and active healthy living.
But I’ve noticed that even though people recognize the health benefits of drinking water, they tend to frown at the idea simply because they don’t like the taste, or maybe the water at home has a funny odor. I remember, when we lived in Hyderabad, the tap water used to taste naturally sweet and pleasant. It is not the same where we live now. However, there are plenty of ways to improve the taste and smell of the water that flows through your pipes.
And sometimes, installing a home filtration system does the trick.
“A whole house water filter completely reduces the bad tastes and odors of chlorine and chloramines without removing essential and healthy minerals such as calcium and magnesium,” says LifeSource’s hard water treatments.
So, what exactly are the natural health benefits of clean, good water? Plenty, but here are five prominent ones:
1. Balances the fluids in your body
Since our bodies are composed of about 60% water, reports the Mayo Clinic, we need adequate fluids to keep our body functioning like clockwork. Everything from digestion to the production of saliva is influenced by the fluids in our body. And unfortunately, failing to drink water can have a negative impact on on our body’s functions, triggering dehydration, dry skin and even fatigue.
2. Helps control your weight
If you’re looking to lose a few pounds, drinking eight glasses of water a day can help your weight loss efforts. For example, if you drink a glass of water before meals, you’ll feel fuller quicker, resulting in eating fewer calories. Likewise, drinking water on a regular basis can stimulate urination, which is how your body releases excess fluids that contribute to water weight.
3. Maintains bowel functions
If you suffer from constipation or other digestive issues, maybe the problem is not enough water. The same way water keeps the rest of your body hydrated, it also keeps your gastrointestinal tract hydrated, preventing hard stools or constipation. Rather than turn to medications as the first resort, increase your water consumption. You may see an improvement in your condition.
4. Fights fatigue
If you’re always sluggish, maybe you’re not drinking enough water. It’s possible to be dehydrated and have zero symptoms. And when you’re dehydrated, your blood volume drops, causing your heart to work harder pushing oxygen into your bloodstream. Bodily systems may begin to slow down, and as a result, you may feel more tired or lethargic. For a quick energy boost, drink a bottle or glass of water.
5. Keeps your skin looking healthy
Frustrated about acne or dry skin? Increasing your water intake can make a huge difference. Dry skin can be a direct result of dehydration. I should know! And since fluids help flush toxins out of your body, drinking water can also mean fewer breakouts, resulting in clear, healthier looking skin.
If you haven’t already, make it your aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. For added flavor, squeeze a few drops of lemon juice into your water, or add other fruits for natural sweetness. Slices of cucumber can also be very refreshing. And yes, iced tea counts!
Stay healthy! ♥
Just one more thing!
Do visit my post at the Blogging Betties: How to zap Blogger’s Block Forever. I’ve listed ten easy tips! Tell me which one is your favorite!
Namaste!
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