Next to air, the most essential element your body needs is
water. Yet, too little is said by medical experts about how
vital water is to our overall health and appearance. Water, not
coffee, not soft drinks, not fruit drinks and of course not
alcoholic drinks. Just water. In grade school science class, you
learn that the human body consists of between 55% and 75% water.
Without it, we would die relatively quickly.
Water is essential to every cell in the human body. It helps to
regulate vital functions such as blow flow, blood pressure,
digestion, waste and toxin elimination. Water helps the skin and
muscle retain elasticity. If you are trying to lose weight,
water helps in metabolizing fat. Water helps to energize your
body by making the transport of fatty acids and sugars more
efficient.
Drinking sufficient quantity water can help to fight off
fatigue, muscle pulls and water retention. Proper hydration will
help the joints to maintain lubrication. In short, while not the
fountain of youth, water is a terrific resource for fending off
many of the effects of aging.
Experts recommend drinking between 6 and 8 cups of water daily.
The ideal quantity depends on factors such as body weight,
activity levels, ambient temperatures etc. A simple rule of
thumb is to drink one ounce of water for each two pounds of body
weight. Adjust your consumption as needed. The color of your
urine can also be a clue to your hydration levels. The darker
the color, the more dehydrated you may be.
If you are chronically dehydrated you may not sense thirst when
you should. This condition will improve if you increase
consumption to appropriate levels.
Athletes need to be certain that they balance out water
consumption with electrolytes. Consumption of excessive
quantities of water can result in serious dilution of
electrolytes that can impact the heart's rhythm Recently, a
woman died after a water drinking contest sponsored by a local
radio station. She drank several gallons of water and suffered
swelling of the brain.
Do not drink all six to eight cups at one time. Spread them out
during the day. Don't count coffee as this has a diuretic effect
and will cause water loss. Soft drinks and fruity drinks add
lots of calories from sugar.
Don't force yourself to drink. Listen to your body.
If you suffer from kidney or adrenal problems or are being
treated for high blood pressure, consult with your physician.
About the author:
David Rafferty owns and operates http://homeworkoutsexpress.com
a supplier of affordable home fitness and exercise equipment and
related information.
