Health Tips
Water's Role in the Body
Water helps nearly every part of the human body function efficiently. Considering that our bodies are almost two-thirds water, it is important to understand water's role in healthy lifestyles. The following are just some of the things water does in the body:
- The brain is 75% water. Moderate dehydration can cause headaches and dizziness
- Bones equate to 22% water
- Muscles are 75% water
- Water is required for breathing
- Water regulates body temperature
- It carries nutrients and oxygen to all cells in the body
- Blood is 92% water
- Water moistens oxygen for breathing
- It protects and cushions vital organs
- Water helps to convert food into energy
- It helps the body absorb nutrients
- Water removes waste
- Water cushions joints
Why You Need to Drink Water
Your body is estimated to be about 60 to 70 percent water. Blood is mostly water, and your muscles, lungs, and brain all contain a lot of water. Your body needs water to regulate body temperature and to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all your organs. Water also transports oxygen to your cells, removes waste, and protects your joints and organs.
How Much Water do You Need to Drink?
A good estimate is to take your body weight in pounds and divide that number in half. That gives you the number of ounces of water per day that you need to drink. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you should drink at least 80 ounces of water per day. If you exercise you should drink another eight ounce glass of water for every 20 minutes you are active. If you drink alcohol, you should drink at least an equal amount of water. When you are traveling on an airplane, it is good to drink eight ounces of water for every hour you are on board the plane. If you live in an arid climate, you should add another two servings per day. As you can see, your daily need for water can add up to quite a lot.
Drink Enough Water
It may be difficult to drink enough water on a busy day. Be sure you have water handy at all times by keeping a bottle for water with you when you are working, traveling, or exercising. If you get bored with plain water, add a box or two of Crystal Light On The Go Flavor sticks to your next order. They are low in calories, taste great and a good way to get in your daily water requirements!
Source: International Bottled Water Association
