What is the importance of drinking water?

We all know that water is essential to keep us alive. However, many people today simply neglect drinking enough water or think that coffee, soda, etc. is a good substitution.
Well, here are some interesting facts about the function of water in the human body:
The human body is anywhere from 55% to 78% water, depending on body size. A rule of thumb is that 2/3 of the body consists of water; it is the main component of the human body.

Did you know that your tissues and organs are mainly made up of water?

• Muscles consist of 75% water
• Brain consists of 90% water
• Bones consist of 22% water
• Blood consists of 83% water

But what does water really do? Every system in the human body depends on water. The functions of water in the human body are vital because water:

• Transports nutrients and oxygen into cells
• Moisturizes the air in lungs
• Helps with metabolism
• Protects our vital organ
• Helps our organs to absorb nutrients better
• Regulates body temperature
• Detoxifies
• Protects and moisturizes our joints

Every cell in your body needs water from head to toe. That is why it is so important to drink enough water. Take for example the brain, which consists of 90% water. If you do not supply enough water to your body, your brain cannot function well, and you will most likely suffer from a headache or migraine. Therefore, next time you feel fatigue and are suffering from a headache, it may be a sign of lack of water consumption or dehydration.

Still drinking just coffee or soda? Many of these substitutes can lead to dehydration. Harmful effects of dehydration include:

• Tiredness
• Migraines
• Constipation
• Muscle cramps
• Irregular blood pressure
• Kidney problems
• Dry skin
• Risk of death

So how much water do you need?

There are a variety of factors that determine your daily water intake, including your general health, how physically active you are, where you live/climate, etc. The Institute of Medicine has determined that an adequate intake for men is about 13 cups of fluid per day and for women is 9 cups of total beverages per day. Mayoclinic.com recommends drinking at least 8 eight-ounce glasses of fluid per day.
I recommend adding some flavor to your next glass of water. My personal favorite is a slice of lemon or cucumber. Happy drinking!