Drinking water is an integral part of staying healthy. The kidneys are involved in water filtration, which also acts as the source of vital oxygen for your body. Water also helps to increase cognitive ability while balancing body temperature and preventing heat stroke. While there are several reasons for consistent water intake, this article will highlight the top five benefits of drinking water:
1. Water helps maintain electrolyte balance
The blood electrolytes, which consist of sodium, bicarbonate, chloride and potassium, help in the regulation of nerve and muscle function. Water helps maintain its balance through osmosis. When electrolyte concentration is high in the fluid compartments, fluid moves into them. If you do not drink enough water, an electrolyte imbalance can occur and this can cause dehydration. Therefore to maintain a healthy state, you need to drink enough water to keep your body hydrated and body fluid level balanced. Water also contains sodium, an essential electrolyte for your body. When sodium is not consumed adequately, the change in electrolyte balance may cause heart, liver and kidney disorders.
2. Hydration keeps blood pressure stable
High blood pressure occurs when arterioles become narrow, hence the heart has to work harder. This can occur when your body is dehydrated as it leads to the release of vasopressin hormone in the brain, causing the arterioles to narrow. High blood pressure raises your chances of having health issues such as stroke. Therefore, you should drink enough water to keep hydrated and help ensure your blood pressure is stabl
3. Water prevents constipation
Dehydration can accumulate toxins in the body, as these toxins are excreted through sweat or urine. If you are not consuming enough water, these toxins become stuck in your body because they cannot be removed by other means. As a result, it leads to constipation and prevents the proper digestion of food in the body. Drinking adequate water keeps the colon hydrated and flushed out, helping it function correctly. This act also prevents constipation and relieves your body from any form of digestive discomfort
4. Fluids improve brain function
Hydration is of significant importance for brain functions and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Keeping your body well-hydrated increases blood flow to the brain and improves mental functioning and brain performance. The effects of dehydration induced by long-term water restriction on cognitive performances may negatively impact vigor, lead to short concentration span and short-term memory. Therefore, to improve mental performance, it is crucial to drink plenty of water
5. Flushes out harmful toxins
Drinking water helps you flush out harmful toxins that can accumulate in your body. The kidneys serve as a filter for all toxins that may be present in your body. However, if you do not drink enough water, it becomes difficult for the kidneys to function correctly, which can cause potentially long-term health problems such as kidney stones or liver disease. Intake of adequate water on a daily basis is sufficient to remove all toxins from your body in a natural manner
From flushing out of harmful toxins, improving brain function, preventing constipation, stabilizing blood pressure and maintaining electrolyte balance, several benefits come about when you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. This practice is important for the body to function at its optimum level. The above points highlight some of the major benefits of water and why you need it in adequate amounts.