Did you know that the human body comprises around 60 % water? So, it is no wonder that staying properly hydrated will only affect your body and well-being in a positive way. And on the contrary: if you are dehydrated, you will surely feel the effects soon.
Drinking water has many benefits, and in this article, we will look at 5 science based reasons to drink more water this summer. So, get a glass of water and read on.
5 reasons to enjoy more water
Professionals recommend drinking eight 8-ounce (237-mL) glasses of water per day (the 8×8 rule). Surprisingly, there is very little research to support this 8x8 rule, but doctors and researchers still recommend staying well-hydrated.
Below, we will look at five science-based reasons to add more water to your nutrition. Especially during hot summer months, it is essential to drink plenty of water.
1. Maximize physical performance
Your muscle is made of 80 % water. Thus, even 2 % dehydration from sweating can cause decreased physical performance. However, during an intense workout, you may lose upt to 6-10 % water from sweating.
If you start to get dehydrated during your workout, you will notice altered body temperature control, reduced motivation, and increased fatigue. So, keep a water bottle handy and remember to take sips even during your workout.
2. Improve energy and brain function
Not drinking enough water can also cause you to lose energy and focus. In fact, studies have shown that mild dehydration, the loss of 1–3% of body weight, can impair your brain function. It can affect your mood, memory, and brain performance.
Dehydration can also make you feel tired and want to sleep more. In addition, it can increase the frequency of headaches.
3. Aid in weight loss
Drinking plenty of water can help you lose weight, too. Drinking water increases metabolism which, in turn, makes you burn more calories. In fact, many studies have shown that drinking water can significantly aid in weight loss.
A 2013 study in 50 young women with overweight demonstrated that drinking an additional 16.9 ounces (500 mL) of water 3 times per day before meals for 8 weeks led to significant reductions in body weight and body fat compared with their pre-study measurements (National Library of Medicine)
Have a hard time drinking plain water? Mix in our delicious Body-Builder!
4. Decrease headaches
Headaches can be caused by dehydration. For instance, if you spend an entire day at the beach at don't drink a drop, it is likely that you will be greeted by a smashing headache when you get home.
On the other hand, if you feel a headache coming on, you might get rid of it simply by drinking a glass of water.
5. Decrease muscle pain
As muscles are made of 80 % water, dehydration can even make your muscles ache. Or if you have worked out a day before and are experiencing some DOMS, you might ease the discomfort by drinking a lot of water.
You can add some flavor into your water
When we speak about drinking more water, we mean water not juice or soda. However, you can add some healthy flavor into your water.
Add some lemon juice
Add ginger
Add cucumbers
Drink up and stay hydrated!
Great article! So true. I add liquid chlorophyll to my water.