What is the one most important thing that every human being needs in order to survive? Water. Water is one of the most essential human needs and in order for our bodies to function properly, we need to make sure we are keeping hydrated on a daily basis. All organs, cells and tissues in the human body require water to work properly. Thanks to water, our bodies are able to regulate our body temperature, normalize blood pressure, keep our heartbeats stabilized, remove waste, help digestion and even keep our brain functioning optimally. It’s not really surprising, considering 60% of your body is composed of water.
Failing to drink enough water can cause :
1. Decreased urination
Just like all other organs, your kidneys require water to help them do their job properly — which is removing wastes (toxins, bacteria) from your blood in the form of urine. If you are not providing your kidneys with enough water, that waste can build up and this can result in higher risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
2. Constipation
This one’s a literal pain in the butt. Haha, get it? Jokes aside, a major component in healthy bowel movements is water. Without water, stool can become hard, lumpy, and dry, making it difficult and sometimes even painful to pass. Water is needed to help the digestive system move food waste out by keeping stool soft and easy to pass.
3. Headaches
While your body is made up of 60% water, your brain is made up of approximately 75% of it. So, it comes as no surprise that not providing it with enough hydration will have dramatic negative effects. When there isn’t enough fluid, the brain may temporarily shrink or contract. Once this occurs, the brain is pulled away from the skull, resulting in pain and headaches.
4. Poor Skin Health
Water gives skin elasticity which allows it to stay moisturized. Without enough water, the skin will start feeling rough and dry due to losing elasticity. This can result in dryness,wrinkling and make your skin at a higher risk for skin disorders. “Another key skin-related symptom of dehydration is skin that remains “tented” after being pinched and takes some time to return to it normal, flat appearance”
5. Bad Breath
Water is a major component in saliva production and saliva is responsible for cleaning bacteria that causes odors. Without saliva, bacteria builds up all over the mouth (teeth, gums, and tongue) which then leads to bad breath.
6. More susceptible to injuries
Another thing water is responsible for is keeping your joints lubricated. Lubricated joints means less friction and more cushion. Furthermore, water helps in the construction of muscle and muscle also protects joints. Not having enough water results in less protection, meaning injuries are more likely to occur.
7. More likely to have health problems
Drinking enough water means every organ, cell and tissue in your body functions properly. However, not drinking enough water can lead to frequent illness. When waste isn’t being removed from your body, there is a weakened immune system and everything else becomes out of order, it’s no surprise that you will be more prone to sickness.
