Drinking more H20 can have surprising health benefits
As we all know, water is essential for life, and we can only live for a few days without it. Our bodies are two thirds water and more than 80 per cent of our brain cells are made up of it.
Water moves nutrients around the system and it helps the body get rid of waste by flushing the liver, lymph, blood and kidneys. It also contains the minerals calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Water boosts immunity and keeps skin elastic, and drinking more of it can also help relieve headaches and constipation. It’s even believed that high water intake can help reduce the risk of chronic health problems including Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure and osteoporosis.
Most of us are dehydrated – which can make you feel tired – and by the time you feel thirsty you are already dehydrated. We lose 2 litres of water every 24 hours so we need to constantly replenish our stores. Keep yourself topped up by following our five tips:
Begin and end each day with a glass of water.
Drink at least eight glasses a day.
Build up your water intake gradually over a few weeks.
Drink a glass about half an hour before eating but don’t drink during meals as this will dilute the enzymes you use to digest your food.
If you drink a lot of tea and coffee, make sure you balance this out by drinking water too.