Water - Does a Body Good

Water is an essential to life. It covers 71% of the earth's surface, and composes 70% of the fat free mass of the human body. Think about that. Water is an essential of our lives. It is key to our over all health. We often don't think of water as being important. It is after all just water. Water helps us live healthy lives. Water is important to many aspects of our body functions. From healthy hearts to weight loss, we could not function without it.

Did you know that drinking water can help you to lose weight? When we are thirsty it is our body's way of telling us we need fluids. In other words our body is telling us that we need water. We often times take in fluids but in the form of sodas, juices or other beverages that are loaded with calories. If we drank water instead we would stay hydrated and consume many less calories. Water also helps suppress our appetites. It is also important for metabolizing fats. What a great incentive to get our daily intake of water.

Water makes up a significant part of our bodies. As I stated at the beginning 70% of our bodies is water. That includes our brain, muscles and hearts. If we do not get enough water, our bodies do not function properly. Blood is 83% water. Muscles are 75% water. The brain is 74% water. Bone is 22% water. To keep these body organs working properly they need their fair share of water.

Water is the universal solvent. We have all heard this. What this means for our bodies is that water works to dissolve and carry key components to cells. Water can carry and distribute metabolites and hormones to cells. Many solutes are also dissolved in water also. Water contains many mineral that are important to growth, stamina, building muscle and development.

Water lubricates our bodies. Our joints need plenty of water to keep them gliding smoothly. The connective tissue surrounding joints as well as the cartilage needs water to maintain the elasticity that makes them work so well. If your cartilage and connective tissue is well hydrated then they will work more efficiently and the friction damage is minimal. Many people have less joint pain when they make sure they are getting the proper amount of water.

Water plays a key role in regulating our body temperature. Sweating is our body's way of cooling us off. This is especially important during exercise and hot weather. It is also important to remember that our bodies need just as much water in the cold weather as well.

Water plays many more roles in our health. It is recommended that we get eight 8oz glasses of water a day. In reality this isn't much at all. Sipping water through out the day can greatly improve our overall health. The benefits to our bodies are tremendous. Next time instead of picking up that soda, why not go for water instead. It will do your body good.