Water and its health benefits have been discussed extensively over the years. Whether the discussion is on the health benefits of drinking water or other various medicinal uses of water, the verdict is in – water is the most important substance we put in and on our bodies. This article will focus specifically on drinking water. The examples are not meant to be comprehensive. Rather, the goal is to illustrate some of the key benefits of water to remind folks the importance water has on our daily health.
Keep Lymphatic System Healthy
The lymphatic system is made up of a network of tissues and organs in the body. The primary function of the system is to help rid waste, toxins and other unwanted materials. One of the key components of the lymphatic system are the approximately 600-700 lymph nodes, which function to fight infection and disease. The thymus is an organ that stores t-cells, cells that help destroy infectious and cancerous cells. There is also the spleen, the largest lymphatic organ that stores white blood cells and functions to fight off infection and disease.
Since the lymphatic system is made up of 95% of water, water is essential for its health. Keeping the body hydrated with water keeps the lymphatic system functioning at full capacity. Without enough fluids, the lymphatic system will run sluggishly. Thus, you will feel sluggish, weak, and not running at full capacity. Since the water flowing through the lymphatic system interacts with every cell in the body, staying hydrated aids in delivering nutrients throughout the body keeping it healthy, cleansed and balanced.
Revitalize the Brain
Did you know the brain is made up of 75% water? The reason there is so much water in the brain is because water is very important in keeping the brain functioning properly. If you want to experience more clarity and creativity, stay more focused, and be able to think at a more rapid rate, drinking plenty of water daily keeps the brain revitalized. Ensuring the brain is on full results in other benefits as well. For instance, research has indicated dehydration can have an adverse affect on mood and headaches. Thus, if you want to prevent/relieve headaches and have balanced moods, drinking enough water is your solution.
Cleanse the Colon
What goes in must come out. Water is arguable the most important aspect of digestion. When you eat, water is what helps keep the food flowing through your intestines and eventually out of your body. Drinking plenty of water daily has a positive effect on your colon. In essence, water plays a vital role in cleansing the colon. Cleansing the colon reduces the occurrence of constipation, bloating, IBS, gas, fatigue, and even in some cases colorectal cancer. While there are plenty of other sources to help get and keep a healthy colon (e.g., fiber, teas, probiotics, medication), nothing is more available, inexpensive, safer, or simpler than just drinking more water daily.
Improve Skin Health
Since a majority of the body is made up of water and skin is the largest organ covering the entire body, it seems logical that keeping the body hydrated can have a positive benefit to the skin. In fact, drinking plenty of water can prevent dry, flaky and aging skin. Interestingly, a recent study found that increasing the consumption of water and thus skin hydration levels had a positive effect on skin physiology (health) on both deep and superficial levels. Water serves as a natural skin moisturizer, delivering the necessary nutrients to the skin. Water can even play a role in fighting off skin disorders such as psoriasis, wrinkles and eczema. There is no magic bullet to skin health. However, if you find that you are unhappy with your current skin condition, try drinking more water for a few weeks to see how hydration affects your skin.
Aid in Weight Loss
Water and weight loss is one of the those areas that has been demonstrated both scientifically and practically to be factual. This is no secret or surprise, just truth. Research has shown that drinking more water can help the body burn calories. Other studies have shown that water consumption before meals can decrease appetite. What about water helping to reduce calorie intake? It sure can, since water intake, instead of other sugary beverage alternatives, can have a cumulative reduction in calorie consumption over the long haul. Lower calories and reduced weight gain is the inevitable outcome.
I hope the above information convinces you why you should make water an important part of your day every day. After all, your health should come first. Drink up and stay healthy!
