Importance of Water
During sweltering summers, it is certainly necessary to keep the body sufficiently hydrated. But the importance of water is often realised only when we are excessively thirsty. However, thirst quenching is just a basic function of water.
Importance of water can be easily understood if we know the vital functions it has in the human body. These include:
It helps with metabolism
Transmitting the nutrients and oxygen in blood cells
Regulating the body temperature
Detoxification
Keeping the skin hydrated and maintaining its suppleness
The human body contains 55 to 78 percent water. Apart from the blood, water is also present in tissues, muscles, bones and brain.
The importance of water for a younger looking skin cannot be ignored. Most women spend huge amounts on artificial cosmetics and other solutions for a better skin. But drinking adequate amount of water can go a long way to actually improve skin quality. Water replenishes the skin tissues and keeps it hydrated, increasing the elasticity and softness of skin.
If you are trying to lose weight, you certainly cannot overlook the importance of water. Drinking good quantities of water can kill the urge to munch between meals. It also helps to flush down the by- products after fat breakdown in the body.
For those who are into strenuous work-outs or regular exercising, the importance of water lies in its ability to regulate the body temperature. It also keeps the muscles and joints lubricated, preventing you from sudden cramps and sprains.
The importance of water also includes its pivotal role in curing ailments such as chronic fatigue, headaches, diabetes, colitis and high blood pressure.
When the body does not get sufficient fluids, it starts deriving the same from the sources within. This depletes the water in the body and in severe cases may lead to dehydration. Chronic dehydration may also cause serious problems of kidney and heart. Indeed the importance of water is also clear from its function in diluting the calcium in urine. If this calcium crystallises, it can form kidney stones in the body.
The importance of water for the vital systems of body and over all well being makes it imperative to consume it in some form or other. On an average the human body needs at least two litres of water daily. Hence 7 to 8 glasses of water must be consumed. In summers or after a work out, when the body starts perspiring, the requirement increases further. Fizzy or alcoholic drinks are not a substitute for water. Some quantity of water can be derived from fruit juices and fresh vegetables in salads such as cucumber, carrots, lettuce and tomatoes.
While understanding the importance of water, it must also be remembered that plain water must be taken in it purest form. Water must be filtered to ensure the removal of all impurities before consumption.
To ensure a balanced diet, we plan food from all groups for adequate nutrition. But the importance of water must not be overlooked as it is this fluid that largely helps in the utilisation of all primary nutrients.
