Water

The importance of water to our bodies is paramount.

Water is used in just about every function of the body, and it can be found in every part of the body from the digestive system to the bones, indeed the body itself is about 60% water. Being responsible for carrying nutrients to and waste products away from our body, water plays a big part in the digestive system where it helps to soften food and move it along the gastrointestinal tract.

 

Water also adds moisture to our eyes and lungs and surrounds the foetus in pregnancy giving protection. Adequate daily intake of water is vital as around 1.5 litres a day are lost in the process of the body's removal of waste products and toxins and sweating etc. This water is expelled/excreted through the kidneys, the skin and also, to some extent, the lungs in the air we exhale. Since the body makes around 1/3 of a litre of water a day during the process of using glucose for energy, it has been concluded that 2 litres of water a day is an ideal intake, and I agree with this. This intake can come from water, herbal tea, or indeed fruit, which contains very large amounts of water that the body finds easy to use. It is important that we try to avoid coming to the point of feeling thirsty through not drinking as this sign tells us that our blood has become thicker, itself being over 90% water. With the above said the vital importance of water can be clearly seen.

In the meantime, stay healthy.

- Paul Spencer Dip. (Clinical Nutrition)

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article has been written for educational purposes only. Before undertaking any form of diet or exercise regime you should consult your doctor before commencement, particularly if there is an underlying medical condition.