H2O intake
3 min readMay 22, 2024
Water is life. The more you know about it the more you benefit from it. The human body is made up of about 60–80% water, while the brain is about 80% water by volume. “When you see water, when you hear water, it triggers a response in your brain that you’re in the right place.” -Blue Mind Theory
- Hydration: Water is crucial for hydration, as it makes up a significant portion of our body composition. Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, and facilitate nutrient transport and absorption.
- Cellular Function: Water is a fundamental component of cellular function. It aids in the transportation of nutrients into cells and the removal of waste products from cells, contributing to optimal cellular function and overall bodily processes.
- Digestive Health: Drinking an adequate amount of water supports proper digestion by helping dissolve nutrients and aiding in the breakdown of food. It also prevents constipation by keeping the digestive tract hydrated and promoting regular bowel movements.
- Kidney Function: Water plays a vital role in kidney function by helping to flush out waste products and toxins through urine. Maintaining proper hydration levels reduces the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
- Heart Health: Adequate hydration supports cardiovascular health by maintaining blood volume and circulation. It helps prevent dehydration-related complications such as low blood pressure, which can strain the heart.
- Joint Health: Water acts as a lubricant for joints, reducing friction and supporting smooth movement. Proper hydration can help prevent joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis.
- Skin Health: Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Hydration keeps the skin moisturized, improves elasticity, and promotes a clear complexion. Dehydration can lead to dryness, dullness, and an increased risk of skin problems like acne and eczema.
- Weight Management: Drinking water can aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake. Substituting sugary beverages with water can also help reduce overall calorie consumption and support weight loss efforts.
- Cognitive Function: Proper hydration is essential for optimal cognitive function and mental clarity. Dehydration can impair concentration, memory, and mood, while staying hydrated supports brain function and overall cognitive performance.
- Enhanced Mood Stability: Dehydration has been linked to mood disturbances, including increased feelings of irritability, anxiety, and fatigue. Drinking enough water can help regulate mood and increase energy by ensuring proper brain hydration and neurotransmitter function.
- Stress Reduction: Dehydration can exacerbate the body’s stress response, leading to heightened feelings of stress and tension. Maintaining hydration levels can help mitigate the physiological effects of stress and promote relaxation.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Hydration plays a role in regulating body temperature and hormone production, both of which are important for sleep. Adequate hydration can contribute to better sleep quality, which in turn positively impacts mood and cognitive function.
- Exercise Performance: Hydration is critical for athletic performance and recovery. Drinking water before, during, and after exercise helps maintain electrolyte balance, prevent dehydration, and support muscle function.
- Temperature Regulation: Water plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature, especially during periods of physical activity or exposure to high temperatures. Proper hydration helps prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
75 Hard challenges us to drink 1 gallon of water a day. Give it a try. Even if you fail, like I did, notice the difference in your life when you drink more water. It changed my life and I drink more water daily because of it. A more accurate long-term goal for me is half a gallon daily.