If there were a simple habit you could begin that would give you a bounty of health benefits…would you be interested? As a senior, I’m always trying to find ways to keep myself fit and healthy, and it may be as simple as drinking more water! Let’s examine the virtues of being well hydrated!
✅Regulates body temperature If properly hydrated, your body has the ability to cool itself with its own built-in air conditioning system known as sweating. It’s essential that the body has sufficient amounts of fluid to do this! Without this ability to cool itself, you are at risk for heat stroke or even heart failure.
✅Fights disease and illness Keeping your body hydrated will aid in the distribution of vitamins and minerals throughout the body through the bloodstream. It can reduce high blood pressure, help flush toxins from the kidneys and liver…keeping you less susceptible to illness.
✅Improves brain function Being well hydrated helps with brain functioning and cognitive abilities. It also affects mood, memory, concentration, and reaction time. The brain is composed of roughly 75% water.
✅Prevents dehydration We all know drinking plenty of water when engaged in physical activity outside reduces the chances of dehydration. If you have an active lifestyle, it is necessary to drink more water than usual to keep from getting heat stroke or heart-related problems. You may also want to add electrolytes to your water as you will sweat them out!
✅Improves digestion You need water for proper digestion and breaking down soluble fiber. Proper hydration prevents bloating, gas, heartburn, and constipation.
✅Flushes away waste and toxins Drinking enough water helps to flush minerals, bacteria and toxins from the body which often can result in urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
✅Helps with your heart Your blood is made up of mostly water, … If there are insufficient levels, the blood becomes concentrated and can cause an imbalance of sodium, potassium and other vital minerals necessary for the heart to function properly, putting you at risk for heart attack.
✅Lubricates joints and cartilage Did you know that cartilage in your joints is comprised of 80% water? Staying well hydrated reduces stress and friction in joints, aiding in movement.
✅Produces saliva and mucus The body requires voluminous amounts of saliva for proper digestion and mucus to eliminate bacteria and foreign contaminants from our eyes, nose and body. These substances are mostly composed of water. They also help reduce tooth decay and bad breath.
✅Boosts energy and metabolism Staying hydrated helps your heart to work less, aids in oxygenation of the blood and helps with circulation.
✅Aids in weight loss Drinking water before eating reduces your hunger and gives a sense of fullness so you eat less. Also, it can replace sodas or sugary drinks that also put on pounds. Staying well hydrated also keeps your body from storing excess water, which also adds to your weight.
✅Healthier skin Water is essential to healthy skin. It enhances elasticity, reduces wrinkles…and the skin is the largest bodily organ. Keep it well hydrated for a more youthful appearance.
✅Helps with constipation Having a well hydrated digestive system aids in moving fecal waste and urine through the body for excretion. Insufficient fluid can clog the colon and result in constipation.
✅Helps to decrease headaches When you’re dehydrated, your brain shrinks and may cause headaches. Drinking more water may reduce the occurrence.
The rule of thumb for water consumption is 8 to 10 glasses a day. This, of course, depends on your activity level, height and weight, but as a general rule, you should intake at least this much daily. If you are uncertain as to the purity of the water you’re drinking and the level of contaminants, may I suggest drinking bottled water or investing in a home water filtration system.
There are many on the market that are affordable and easy to use. The point is, water is an inexpensive solution to aiding in better health and longer life! Start today by investing in a personal reusable water container and fill it up! Drink throughout the day! Sure, you’ll need to be closer to the bathroom…but the benefits well outweigh the inconvenience! Stay active, eat healthy…and be well!
Dave Shelton
Freelance graphic artist and sign designer. 66-year-old retiree who lives in Arizona with his husband, Tom.
I have also been a cartoonist, comedian, and have created articles in publications throughout the United States. My focus in retirement is primarily health, fitness, and laughter content.
I create my content based on my own life experiences.
