The power of water
You may already know this. Our body is around 66% water. Our bones are composed of 22%, muscles are 76%, blood is 83%, our lungs are 90%, and our brains are 95% water.
And yet… we still do not drink enough water or put priority to other beverages that we drink throughout the day. Water is crucial for our health because it helps us be strong and support our body’s defenses. Down bellow I have listed the functions water plays a role in, for you to see how important drinking water is.
But before diving in, I would like to advise you to be careful where your water comes from. This will depend on where you live or what brand you buy. Try to make sure that your water is as clean and free from toxins as possible.
Absorption and transportation of nutrients: Water helps in the absorption process by dissolving vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients from the food you consume. Then, water acts as the primary medium for the transportation of nutrients throughout the body. This is particularly crucial for the immune system, which depends on a diverse range of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, to operate at its best.
Detoxification: Adequate water intake helps in the removal of waste products and toxins from the body. This is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, as the accumulation of toxins can hinder immune function. Our body uses water to urinate and have bowel movements, meaning we need water for the proper function of kidneys for filtering our waste through urination and avoid kidney stones and also we need water for a healthy stool and avoiding constipation.
Lymphatic System Function: The lymphatic system, a key component of the immune system, depends on water for proper functioning. Lymph, a fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system, plays a role in transporting immune cells and eliminating waste. Staying hydrated supports the optimal function of the lymphatic system.
Mucous Membrane Integrity: Many immune responses occur in mucous membranes, such as those lining the respiratory and digestive tracts. Water helps maintain the integrity of these membranes, providing a barrier against pathogens and facilitating the action of immune cells.
Temperature Regulation: Water plays a role in regulating body temperature, and maintaining a stable body temperature is crucial for the optimal functioning of the immune system. Extreme temperatures, whether too high or too low, can stress the body and compromise immune function. Our body uses water to produces sweat, which helps regulate our body temperature for instance when we are exercising or in warm temperatures. Our sweat is able to keep our body cool, however, if we do not replenish the water we lose, our body’s temperature will rise. The reason for this is because of the electrolytes and plasma loss when we are dehydrated.
Cellular function: Water is essential for various cellular processes, and immune cells rely on these processes to recognize and eliminate pathogens. Proper hydration ensures that immune cells can carry out their functions effectively.
Production of Saliva and Digestive Juices: Adequate water intake supports the production of saliva and digestive juices. These fluids contain small amounts of mucous, electrolytes and enzymes and other substances that help break down food and facilitate nutrient absorption, contributing to overall immune health. It is important to note that saliva production may decrease as a result of age or certain medications or therapies.
Protects tissues, spinal cord and joints: Adequate hydration helps in maintaining the structure and integrity of tissues. Water is a key component of cells, and it contributes to the maintenance of the extracellular matrix, which provides support to tissues. Cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds the spinal cord and brain, acts as a shock absorber and is essential for protecting these sensitive tissues from impact. Similarly, synovial fluid in joints provides lubrication, reducing friction between bones and minimizing wear and tear. Hydration is essential for the flexibility and mobility of joints. Proper fluid balance in and around joints allows for smooth movements and helps prevent stiffness or discomfort.
Blood oxygen circulation: Proper hydration helps maintain an adequate blood volume. When you are well-hydrated, your blood is more fluid and can flow more easily through blood vessels. This facilitates the efficient transport of oxygen to various tissues and organs.
Cognitive function and mood: The brain is highly sensitive to changes in hydration status. Even mild dehydration can lead to a decline in cognitive abilities such as concentration, alertness, and short-term memory. Proper hydration ensures that the brain has an adequate supply of water to function optimally. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, play a role in nerve signal transmission. Maintaining the right balance of electrolytes is essential for proper communication between brain cells, influencing mood and cognitive processes.
Physical performance: Dehydration can lead to a decrease in endurance and exercise performance. When you're well-hydrated, your body can better regulate temperature, and your heart doesn't need to work as hard to pump blood, contributing to improved endurance during physical activities. Not to mention the help in joint lubrication.
Healthy Skin: Water helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance. It prevents excessive dryness or oiliness, contributing to a smoother and more even complexion. Furthermore, water supports the skin's natural healing processes. Whether recovering from wounds, cuts, or irritation, staying hydrated promotes faster recovery and reduces the risk of scarring. Proper hydration is associated with a lower risk of certain skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. It can alleviate symptoms and contribute to overall skin health.
