7 Health Benefits from Drinking Water
Why You Should Drink More Water
Did you know that 60% of your body is composed of water? This water needs to be replenished daily, because most of your water is lost through urine, sweat, tears, diet, stress, and even alcohol (because it is a diuretic).
Water makes up 60% of your body. Source H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158
7 Health Benefits from Drinking Water
- Relieves Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the first signs of dehydration. When there is less water there is a drop of blood volume which causes the heart to work harder to pump oxygenated blood out in the bloodstream, and other major organs also work less efficiently
- Improves Mood
Research shows that dehydration can negatively affect your mood and ability to think.
- Less Headaches/Migraines
Both headaches and migraines are usually caused from dehydration. Research shows that increasing water intake helped reduce the total number of hours and intensity of headaches in the study participants.
- Decreases Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are from a loss of water and electrolytes. Stay hydrated throughout the day, during your workout, and after your work out to prevent cramping.
- Glowing, Healthy Skin
Water improves capillary blood flow, which promotes healthier and younger-looking skin. Water also helps replenish skin tissues, moisturizes skin, and increases the elasticity in your skin. Proper hydration causes your skin to look fresh, soft, and smooth. Water can also prevent/treat soft lines, scars, acne, and wrinkles.
- Aids in Weight Loss
Drinking two 8-ounce glasses before a meal can suppress your appetite and fills your stomach, reducing the tendency to eat more. Water helps increase the rate at which the body burns fat, and promotes the breakdown and elimination of fat cells.
Switch out a soda or another sugary, fizzy drink for zero-calorie water and watch your body transform.
- Keeps You Alive!
Water is the closest we've come to finding the fountain youth. Your body can go about 21 days without food, but only a few days without water. This is because every part of the body requires water to function properly. So go pour yourself a glass of water!
How Much Water Should You Drink Daily?
Take your body weight in pounds now divide it by 2 and drink that much in ounces a day.
Example: A person who weighs 120 lbs should drink 60ounces of water a day.
Days you workout add an extra 5 ounces of water for every 15 minutes you work out.
Example: 30 minutes of running = 10 extra ounces of water for the day
CamelBak has a Hydration Calculator that looks at your gender, height, and activity level. Check it out for more tips on how to stay hydrated when participating in different fitness activities.
