Top five health benefits of drinking water

Our bodies can supposedly last weeks without food, yet just a few days without water. This makes sense when you realize our bodies are made up of about 60% water and that being dehydrated can affect us both physically and mentally.

The exact nutritional composition of your glass of water will depend on its source. Mineral and spring water, which are typically derived from underground reservoirs and springs, may provide additional nutrients in the form of minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Five major health benefits of drinking water are listed below.

May improve memory and mood

Research has shown that even mild dehydration may impair memory and mood in everyone from children to the elderly. Hydration impacts the brain, as well as the body, and research has shown that even mild dehydration may have a negative impact on moods and may heighten anxiety.

A lack of water may also increase the risk of a headache or migraines in some individuals.

Aid weight maintenance

The brain can’t actually tell the difference between hunger and thirst, so often we mistake thirst as a ‘sugar craving’. The next time you feel the need for something sweet, try a glass of water first.

Staying hydrated may also help with weight maintenance. Research has shown that having water before a meal may fill you up more and therefore promote weight loss through suppressing your appetite. This was also noted in a 2015 study in which diet drinks were swapped for water. The results showed this may lead to greater reduction in weight and improved insulin resistance.

Improve exercise performance

There has been a lot of research into the effects of hydration or dehydration in athletes, and the results all pretty much conclude that dehydration not only affects sports performance but also physiological function too.

May prevent constipation

Water helps to ‘keep things moving’ in the digestive system, so staying hydrated may help prevent constipation in children, adults and the elderly. There is some evidence that fizzy water may be of particular benefit too.

May support the health of the urinary system

Poor hydration may increase the risk of developing, or the recurrence of kidney stones, in some individuals. Studies have also shown that drinking adequate amounts of water may reduce the risk of bladder infections and urinary tract infections, including cystitis, in women.

This article has been taken from BBC Good Food.