28 November, 2021

Why Hydration Is Important

Did you know water makes up 50 to 70% of the human body weight? Every tissue and organ in your body needs water to function properly, and that is why it is so important to keep hydrated. Water helps keep your temperature under control. It helps to keep lubrication in joints, it protects sensitive tissues and gets rid of body waste through a combination of actions from perspiration, urination and bowel movements. If you don’t consume enough water, even mild dehydration, you will feel less energetic and tired.

There are many studies that have been done in regards to what is the right amount of water to drink each day to stay healthy. There are some extenuating circumstances such as what climate you live in – someone in a hot, humid weather will perspire more than someone living in a colder climate, age and how active you are.

Allowing for about 20% coming back through food, the rest needs to be consumed through beverages, and it may surprise you, but the total recommended daily consumption for men is 3.7 litres, and for women, it is 2.7 litres a day. Water isn’t the only way to reach your fluid requirements. Fruit such as watermelon is almost 100% water by weight and things such as coffee and soda. Tea, milk and juices can all contribute to your daily intake.

The best way is to listen to your body. If you rarely feel thirsty and your urine is colourless or light yellow, then these are good indications that you are well hydrated. The standard comment you usually hear is 2 litres a day or 8 cups of water. It might sound like a lot, but if you sip through the day, you’ll find it is quite easy to do.

Obviously, an easy way to do this is with a drink bottle. Fill it up in the morning and keep it handy throughout the day. For example, keep it on your desk at work, and every 10 or 15 minutes, just take a sip. You don’t have to drink volumes at any one time. As long as you do it consistently throughout the day, you will find it easy to do.

Many people ignore their body and what it needs. We feed it junk, skip meals and don’t nourish ourselves properly. At a minimum, water and staying hydrated is the easiest one. There is no cooking, no shopping, just fill a drink bottle with water and carry it with you throughout the day. Maybe even keep a few vacuum flasks – one at the office, one in the car for the drive into work and back or to take it with you on the train or the bus.

As mentioned above, there are other factors involved in how much water you need. If you exercise, it is very important to hydrate beforehand, during and afterwards to ensure your body is well nourished. Where you live is also important. Hot and humid countries or high altitude living requires additional water intake. If you have a fever or are vomiting or have diarrhea, it is very important to keep your water intake up.

The phrase “Water is life” is certainly very true. So keep healthy and keep hydrated.

The Drink Bottles Team