Most people know that our bodies are made of water, but did you know that water is about 85% of our total mass? Of that total 85%, muscles are about 80% water and the brain about 75% water.
Needless to say, hydration is vitally important to the basic functions of life and imperative for optimal performance. Most sources recommend drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water (ie 75 ounces/day for someone who weighs 150 pounds) daily. During summer months and in regions of hot and humid climate maintaining proper levels of hydration is critical and may call for drinking even more.
The skin like any other organ is made up of cells that are primarily water-based. Drinking enough water throughout the day ensures that these cells in the skin are adequately hydrated. In turn, these hydrated skin cells reduce dry, flaky and tight skin while increasing natural glow and clarity.
While not an organ, each strand of hair is approximately 25% water which means hydration has a direct correlation to hair health. In addition, having enough water helps with vitamin and mineral absorption which is another key ingredient to making every day a good hair day.
Maintaining optimal hydration levels also improves
heart health and blood flow. Increased fluid consumption raises the blood volume in the body, decreasing the amount of work the heart has to do in order to supply the body with blood. The increase in blood volume also makes blood less viscous improving overall circulation and flow. This decreased load on the heart reduces the risk of heart-related disease.
As mentioned before, muscles are 85% water and rely on proper hydration to achieve maximum performance. Water is key for delivering nutrients into the cells of all organs and muscles while removing waste and toxins. If muscles become dehydrated electrolyte and other nutrients will deplete causing cramping and you to become more prone to injury.
Other organs such as the kidneys, liver, and lungs are all primarily made up of water and require it for proper function. Your kidneys in particular need water to help cleanse and eliminate bacteria and waste from the body in the form of urine. Adequate hydration can also aid in digestion and liver function in addition to overall organ health. Even the lungs need sufficient water levels to prevent mucous linings from becoming too thick and adhesive.
Dehydration occurs when the body does not have enough water to meet its basic needs and perform basic functions. Some common signs and symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, lack of energy and focus, headache, vomiting, and fainting when severe to name a few.
During the summer months in particularly hotter regions, it is important to monitor children, those with chronic disease and the elderly to ensure they are consuming enough water. If caught early mild dehydration can be reversed by drinking fluids to replace those lost, in more severe cases fluids are administered intravenously by professionals.
As a note, it is possible to drink too much water especially if you suffer from certain health conditions such as thyroid disease or kidney, liver or heart problems. Certain medications can also cause you to retain water such as NSAIDs and opiate pain medications. Be sure to check with your doctor to ensure you are consuming the right amount of water.
Dr. Kevin Kinney, board certified and licensed Chiropractic Physician featured on INSIDER.com, TheTodayShow.com & BlackDoctorsMatter.org. Connect with Dr. Kev at drkevinkinney.com or @DrDuval904
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