Pure Hydration – Step 4 to a Happier Life
Cultivating a healthy body may take many forms throughout your life.
As we shift and change, so too do the practices we engage with in order to nurture our bodies.
Remember, well-being is a journey, not a destination. There is no “quick fix”, ‘one-size-fits-all’ or a specified regimen. This journey is a commitment to yourself, creating consistent practices in a way that feels aligned for you, to access balance in all areas of your life.
Your body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work properly. For example, your body uses water to maintain it’s temperature, remove waste, and lubricate your joints. So, water is needed for overall good health.
The human body comprises around 60% water and so it is commonly recommended that you drink around eight glasses of water per day.
Although there’s little science behind this specific rule, staying hydrated is extremely important because we can quickly dehydrate our nervous system.
Benefits of drinking plenty of water:
It helps maximize physical performance
If you don’t stay hydrated, your physical performance can suffer. This is particularly important during intense exercise or high heat because our muscles are about 80% water.
Dehydration can lead to altered body temperature control, reduced motivation, and increased fatigue. It can also make exercise feel much more difficult, both physically and mentally.
Significantly affects energy levels and brain function
Your brain is strongly influenced by your hydration status.
Studies show that even mild dehydration, such as the loss of 1–3% of body weight, can impair many aspects of brain function.
Many other studies, with subjects ranging from children to older adults, have shown that mild dehydration can impair mood, memory, brain performance, and sleep.
May help prevent and treat headaches
Dehydration can trigger headaches and migraines in some individuals.
Research has shown that a headache is one of the most common symptoms of dehydration. For example, a study in 393 people found that 40% of the participants experienced a headache as a result of dehydration.
What’s more, some studies have shown that drinking water can help relieve headaches in those who experience frequent headaches.
May help relieve constipation
Constipation is a common problem.
Low water consumption appears to be a risk factor for constipation in both younger and older individuals.
Increasing hydration may help decrease constipation.
Mineral water may be a particularly beneficial beverage for those with constipation.
Studies have shown that mineral water that’s rich in magnesium and sodium improves bowel movement frequency and consistency in people with constipation.
May help treat kidney stones
Urinary stones are painful clumps of mineral crystal that form in the urinary system.
The most common form is kidney stones, which form in the kidneys.
Higher fluid intake increases the volume of urine passing through the kidneys. This dilutes the concentration of minerals, so they’re less likely to crystallize and form clumps.
Can aid weight loss
Drinking plenty of water can help you lose weight.
This is because water can increase the feeling of being full and satisfied, and boost your metabolic rate.
Some evidence suggests that increasing water intake can promote weight loss by slightly increasing your metabolism, which can increase the number of calories you burn on a daily basis.
The timing is important too. Drinking water half an hour before meals is the most effective. It can make you feel fuller so that you eat fewer calories.
Here are some signs that can signal you may be dehydrated:
- Little or no urine
- Urine that is darker and / or smellier than usual
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness or fatigue
- Extreme thirst
- Confusion
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- No tears when crying
Make sure to read all 8 posts in this series and view our offerings if you’re interested in coaching.
Yours in kindness,
Taz
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