The Importance of Water
Water, even though it has zero calories, has been described as an essential
nutrient but is the one nutrient that has been neglected, under-appreciated,
and under researched. We have all heard it time and again, you must drink water
daily! But why?
Clean, pure water is absolutely necessary for life and is vital for your cells. Water
makes up about fifty to sixty-six percent of your total body weight, regulates
your temperature, moves nutrients through your body and eliminates waste and
minerals your body has lost.
Water also regulates the flow of blood and lymph through the body, is essential
to the functioning of your brain, cushions and regulates organs, aids transfer and
absorption of nutrients into cells and tissues, facilitates the removal of waste out of the cells, regulates the movement of nerve impulses through the nervous system,
oversees the balance of hormones, and helps to regulate body temperature
and the lubrication and cushioning of joints.
And of course, water is essential to prevent dehydration. That’s a lot of power
for such an under-appreciated nutrient!
Because water makes up a large portion of your blood volume, it also contributes
to the transport of nutrients to your cells. Adequate water intake also enables
your body to excrete waste through perspiration, urination, and defecation. The
kidneys and liver both use water to help flush out waste, as do your intestines.
Water does more than just quench your thirst, regulate your body's temperature,
and transport nutrients- which should be enough reason to want to drink water
daily. This precious fluid also keeps the tissues in your body moist. We all
know that uncomfortable feeling when our eyes, nose, or mouth gets dry. Keeping
hydrated helps to retain optimal levels of moisture in these areas. So, make
drinking clean, pure water every day an essential part of your regimen to keep
your cells healthy.
Drinking water doesn't have to be a struggle. Add a piece of your favorite fruit or infuse your water with a favorite herb. There are countless ways to enjoy drinking water. Encourage your children to drink water each day by offering water first when they are thirsty.
- Maday Labrador