When I was growing up, I hardly ever drank water, my thirst mechanism just was not strong. Once I went to Naturopatic Medical School and found out how important water is to health, I slowly taught myself to drink more water. Now I can’t imagine not drinking at least half my body ounces of water per day. That is the minimum amount that I ask patients to drink in a 24 hour period (half of their body weight in ounces of water). If caffeine is consumed or exercise performed than even more water is needed.
Just to emphasize how important water is, the human body is 77% water. The brain is made up of 70% water, lungs 90%, blood 82%, skin 80%, muscles 75% and bones 22% water. So these vital organs need water to maintain their health and to function properly.
Here are some important bodily functions that we need enough water in order to do daily. Digestion of our food, water converts the food that we eat into the smaller components that we need for survival. Water keeps our mucosal membranes moist, which is needed to keep out allergens, virus and bacteria that we may breath in on a daily basis.Water allows the body’s cells to grow, reproduce and survive. Water flushes out the body’s waste, mainly via the urine. Water is needed to lubricate joints and prevent arthritis. Water is the main component of most cells. Water regulates body temperature via sweating and respiration. Water lubricates our joints and acts as a shock absorber for the brain and spinal cord. Water also helps deliver oxygen all over the body which is needed for energy and overall survival.
Some tips to help increase your water intake include carrying a water bottle with you to drink when thirsty. Drink the water temperature that you prefer, some patients prefer cold water, others room temperature or even hot water. Also drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning helps as well.
If you have any questions about your health, Dr. Jackson is available via telehealth, phone or screened in person visits.
Take good care,
Michelle K. Jackson