Does Drinking 8 Glasses of Water a Day Benefit Our Health?
In today’s world of sugary juices and carbonated sodas, there are plenty of beverage options, especially for those looking to avoid a boring glass of water. The notion that a person should drink eight glasses of water per day — while accepted by most in the medical community — is literally hard for many to swallow, and getting kids to see the benefits of water can be an even harder challenge.
While the simple taste of water may not be enough of a draw, its numerous health benefits and cleansing effects on the body should be.
The human body is made up of two-thirds water, and water is an essential component of organs — from the liver to the brain. Drinking eight glasses is the best way to keep body systems running smoothly and efficiently. For example, when not supplied with enough water, the brain can respond with severe headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, all common symptoms of dehydration. For young children in school, hydrating in the morning and throughout the day aids their ability to focus and retain information they are being taught (evidenced by the UK’s campaign and website wateriscoolinschool.org.uk). In adults, hydration is said to lead to higher productivity in the workplace.
While many argue that the body acquires water through all liquids and most foods consumed by the body, nothing can compete with the purity of water. Carbonated and sugary beverages are often loaded with additives, including sweeteners and preservatives. In addition to adding calories, these drinks are far less purifying than straight water, thus contributing less to kidney and urinary health.
Weight and Water Retention: Anyone who works out regularly knows that a key component of any vigorous workout is sweat and lots of it! But in order to have the stamina required of exercise, one needs to drink water frequently throughout the day to replenish loss through perspiration and to keep cells hydrated. Men’s Health Magazine recommends drinking 8 ounces for every 20 minutes of exercise ). Clearly, effective exercise is almost impossible without proper hydration, and weight loss can’t come without exercise. So, if you’re looking to lose weight, load upon the water, get read to sweat… and then replenish!
Many also struggle with fat around their middle. Regardless of how much work they do, they find that there is often an inch or two that simply will not go away. Oftentimes, though, that fat is a result of water retention and the bloating that results from a lack of hydration. When the body isn’t receiving enough water, it retains a certain amount to protect itself. That amount often accumulates in the mid-section, taking on the appearance of belly fat. Once replenished, the body eliminates excess water, bringing back that flatter stomach. Drinking eight glasses of water a day clearly benefits the body, including its organs and cells and ability to focus. Hydration is also a key component of any exercise or weight loss plan. And while the amount required may fluctuate based on body size or activity level, the verdict is clear: water benefits one’s health… so keep drinking!
Sarah writes on behalf of Team24 a healthcare jobs specialist. Team24 work within locum recruitment and are always on the look out for qualified doctors and nurses nationwide.
Related articles
- 5 Antioxidant Myths (cleansebody.org)
- Benefits of Natural Weight Loss Pills – How Effective are They? (dietcleanse.org)
