but drinking the proper amount of water may be the balance that is missing for you. After all, as you may already know, more than 70% of the human body is made up of water. And it is the main component of the body, being an essential element of all cells.
But, in practice, why is water so important?
This is one of the most difficult questions to answer. Not for lack of explanation – but for excess. But don’t worry, because we have summarized it for you! So, get your water ready and swipe it to the side.
Water protects the heart
A study carried out by Loma Linda University, in the United States, has shown that people who drink more than five glasses of water are less likely to suffer heart attacks or other heart diseases. This is because, with more diluted blood, it flows more easily through the blood vessels, decreasing the chances of heart attacks and strokes.
It controls the body
Water plays a regulating role in many functions of the body, from temperature control to the proper functioning of the circulatory system.
It controls blood pressure
Water prevents cramps, which occur when there is a hydroelectric imbalance in the muscles.
It improves bowel function
When the bowels are not working very well, a good tip is to eat more fiber and drink more water as well.
It cleanses the body, because it prevents the retention of toxic substances.
It increases physical endurance
After all, during physical exercise, the loss of water through sweat makes our performance worse.
It protects the kidneys against renal problems.
It transports the nutrients
Without water, blood becomes denser and consequently less able to transport vitamins and minerals to the cells.
It helps in weight loss
By increasing activity in the nervous system, and thus raising the level of energy spent, the habit of drinking water constantly also promotes weight loss. In addition to avoiding a “restrained” appearance.
It is the cheapest and most effective treatment for the skin
A good intake of water promotes the revitalization of the cells and mucous membranes. On the skin, this results in hydration from the inside out.
And what can the lack of good hydration cause?
Lack of water can cause weakness, dizziness, headache, fatigue, and if very prolonged, lead to death.
It is also worth pointing out that low water consumption increases the risk of obesity. According to a study published in the scientific journal Annals of Family Medicine, people who drink too little water have a 50% higher risk of obesity, compared to those who are adequately hydrated. And here’s the warning: according to a study by Danone Research Brazilians drink too little water.
Some conditions cause you to need to drink more water than usual
Alcohol and caffeine consumption, spending time in air-conditioned or heated environments, summer, and diabetes are some examples.
And what is the recommended daily intake of water?
In other words, each person has a different need, but a general recommendation is 2.5 liters a day.
Ideal water intake calculator
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Remember: if it’s not water, it’s an illusion.
If you get thirsty, a soft drink will do the trick? NO.
If you read the label of any kind of industrialized beverage, you will realize that this little beauty is quenching your thirst, but compromising your hydration. This is because you ingest not only water, but sugars, preservatives, stabilizers, and many other components that will harm your health.
And do you know about water-based foods? They don’t hydrate that much.
Watermelon, melon, pumpkin, chayote: these and other foods are really rich in water. But that doesn’t solve your body’s hydration. With them, the maximum you will be able to replenish is 10% of your total hydration needs.
Lastly, some people need special attention:
Children:
They have less body mass and therefore need to replace water more quickly.
Pregnant and/or lactating women:
should intensify their water intake to improve lactation.
Elderly:
they have reduced water content in the body, which causes dehydration to occur more rapidly. In fact, this is one group of people who may find it difficult to hydrate themselves. The tip is to offer a glass of water every 2 hours.
So, how much water did you drink while reading this content?
Don’t let your health go down the drain. Hydrate properly.
March 23 – World Water Day
References linked in the text, D’Or Health Management Consulting and Minha Vida.
Technical manager: Dr. Sérgio Hércules – CRM (Regional Medical Council) 61.605