5 Surprising Reasons For Staying Hydrated
Humans, like all animals, are born instinctively understanding the need to hydrate in order to survive. Though you may be able to survive up to 21 days without food, you would be lucky to last 4 days without fluids.
This makes water, quite literally, the elixir of life!
Most people are familiar with the common symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, headaches, or darker urine. However, other symptoms often go unrealised, plus there are numerous other reasons you should regularly reach for your water bottle.
If you want to learn more about the dry facts of dehydration, check out this article here.
Here are 5 reasons for staying hydrated that might surprise you.
Promotes cardiovascular health - Dehydration leads to decreased blood volume and thicker blood. Meaning your heart has to struggle to pump the available blood around the body to ensure your cells are getting the much-needed oxygen and nutrients.
Keeps your skin feeling fresh and youthful - Have you ever noticed how dehydration causes your skin to look dry and wrinkled? It is because your hydration levels determine the health, elasticity and appearance of your skin. A common symptom of dehydration includes itchy, dry skin, so before you reach for the moisturiser, try drinking a large glass of water first.
Enhances your athletic performance - Your hydration levels impacts your energy levels. When you are dehydrated, your blood volume drops, meaning less oxygen and nutrients can be transported to your muscles, nerves and organs. Reducing not only your energy levels but also your strength, agility and reflexes.
Enhances cognitive function and mood - Sufficient hydration is essential in the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, as well as the removal of toxins and waste. It is essential for the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Your mood and cognitive function start to decrease as soon as your hydration levels drop below normal.
Supports digestion - If you are feeling constipated, then the first thing you should do is check that you have had enough water. Water is needed for the proper digestion of soluble fibre, as well as ensuring your digestive system is well lubricated so that the foods pass through with ease.
