We all know we should stay hydrated. From keeping the kidneys healthy to losing weight, water has a wide range of benefits for your body. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water - we are, after all, we are built out of around 80% water! Therefore, it is important to ensure we are taking in enough fluids on a daily basis without going into excess.
We always hear it is good to drink water but what exactly are the benefits of water? We have compiled these quick top 10 benefits of drinking good old H20:
1. It lubricates the joints
Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Joints are our natural shock-absorbing mechanics, therefore keeping them well lubricated means they function properly and reduces the risk of joint pain.
2. It forms saliva and mucus
Saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean. Consumed instead of sweetened beverages, it can also reduce the risk of tooth decay.
3. It delivers oxygen throughout the body
Blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body - with a reduction in water, there is a reduction of blood in the body, reducing your blood pressure. A lack of water also causes the blood to thicken, further pushing up blood pressure.
4. It boosts skin health and beauty
With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling. Lots of water helps keep the skin hydrated and youthful looking - think of it as a much cheaper alternative to aesthetics and pricey skin creams!
5. It cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues
Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning, therefore make sure you have a glass of water first thing when you get up out of bed. This will help put you in good stead for the day ahead.
6. The digestive system depends on it
The bowel needs water to work properly and process food. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn, stomach aches, acid reflux and stomach ulcers. Therefore ensure you're having water with your meals.
7. The airways need it
The lining of our airwars is a warm, moist environment. When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse, or it can make you feel short of breath.
8. It makes minerals and nutrients accessible
Minerals and nutrients dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach different parts of the body and be absorbed into the body's cells to give us energy. Ensure you're drinking with your meals to make sure your digestive system can adequately dissolve and help the body absorb the vital nutirents it needs on a daily basis.
9. It flushes waste & helps prevent kidney damage
The kidneys regulate fluid in the body and gets rid of useless waste products via urine. Water is needed to help the body create urine and flush out unnecessary waste. If your urine is concentrated, this is a sign that you have not drunk enough water. Concentrated urine can be dark yellow to brown in colour and be quite strong in smell. Drink more to get a light, pungent-free urine. This will also help reduce the risk of kidney stones and other renal problems.
10. Weight loss
Tada! Water may also help with weight loss! If you have water instead of sweetened juices and soft drinks, your body is being hydrated without those dodgy sweeteners or sugars. Pre-loading with water before meals can help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness. More so if you drink sparkling water, the carbonated bubbles fill up your stomach even moreso than still water. It is a good trick to reduce your food portion intake.
We enthusiastically promote drinking plenty of water when using the Slim Transformation programme. As the jab slows down gastric emptying, it uses up more fluid to process the food. Keeping well hydrated will help stave off headaches, constipation and give you a sense of fullness.
If you have any questions regarding your fluid intake, feel free to message us anytime.
Thanks for reading,
The Slim Transformation Team
0330 311 0008