by: Dr. Marion Somers
The importance of water has been emphasized throughout our lives as well as the potential negative effects of dehydration. The amount of water which appears to work for the average person ranges between four and six cups a day. Of course this amount might vary with the amount of exercise one is indulging in or the temperate of the day or your age and body physique or what our internal thermometer is saying. Many people, especially as they age, are not sensitive to their thirst sensors as they might have been when they were younger. There are other influences that might tip the scales on our water intake such as medication which includes what is a prescription or what might be medication that is purchased over the counter.
The elements of water have many jobs such as carrying nutrients and oxygen to our cells, normalizing blood pressure, stabilizing one’s heartbeat, helping to regulate body temperature, flushing bacteria from one’s body while aiding digestion or preventing constipation. One of the many signs of dehydration is light headedness, confusion of speech and analyzing, or urine that is a darker color. Water also helps create salvia and aids in breaking down our food. Water also aids in protecting our body condition, joints, and spinal cord. It assists in helping us to maintain balance, and to prevent the spine from compacting. There are studies that state that drinking water while dieting or exercising will help one shed those extra pounds. Water carries oxygen and nutrients to the entire body. We also get some water from the food we eat that maybe water dense; water is basic to many bodily functions.
Becoming aware of your water consumption is an easy way to keep dehydration at bay. Pacing your water intake so that you have consumed half of the water you consider needed for your heath and wellbeing by noon and finish your water consumption about an hour before you are scheduled to sleep, helps the body in its regulatory functions. All aspects of your body will be more harmonious when the bodies need for water are addressed and nurtured.
