Journal
WHY IS HYDRATION IMPORTANT?
Two thirds of our body weight consists of water, and it turns out the old saying 'you need 8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated' is a total myth. This means that many people need to rethink what they they knew about hydration. So, how do we stay well hydrated?
WATER AND THE HUMAN BODY
Hydration is key to optimal body performance, if the body suffers through a water deficiency, the lymphatic system, the system that helps maintain fluid balance, makes sure essential cells stay hydrated at the cost of damage to less important ones, causing your body to perform less efficiently.
Facts about water and the human body
To reiterate the importance on hydration for the human body, here are some facts you might not know
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After oxygen, water is the bodies most important nutrient.
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Two thirds of the human body weight is water
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73% of the human brain and heart is water
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The lungs are around 83% water
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Water helps to maintain mental focus, sleep and recovery
How much water should men drink?
Medical professionals have realised that your water intake is dependant on a number of variable circumstances including how active you are, where you live and your overall health.
The Institute of Medicine has determined that, on average, men should be aiming for around 3 litres of water a day.
Can I drink too much water?
Yes, drinking too much water can cause low sodium levels in your blood which can cause cells to swell. Correct levels of sodium is integral, especially if you are active or live in a hot country.
WAYS TO STAY HYDRATED
Drinking water isn't the only way to stay hydrated. Here are a few more ways to go about it
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Create water consumption goals🥅
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Create drink reminders throughout the day. The goal is, little & often.
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Reduce caffeine, even 2-3 cups of coffee per day can be dehydrating! ☕️
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Drink milk! Milk naturally contains high concentrations of electrolytes, which help balance the amount of water in your body🥛
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Fruits and vegetables make for a perfect hydrating snack (Fruits and vegetables with the highest water content include: Berries, Lettuce, Cabbage and Spinach)🍉
