Drinking enough water is essential to maintain good health. Without enough water, your body can become dehydrated, which can lead to many symptoms and may even become life threatening. If concerned about water consumption, talk with your physician or registered dietitian who can make recommendations based on your age, general health and activity level.
Clears Out Toxins
Every cell and system in your body needs water to function properly. The right level of water helps your body fight disease by flushing toxins out. Your body is constantly losing water through breathing, sweating and elimination -- and the water that is lost needs to be replaced. Most need about eight to nine glasses a day. Athletes may need more, and those with certain diseases may have to limit water intake. For those with no known disease, if enough water is consumed, the urine will be clear or pale yellow. Darker urine may be a sign that your body needs more water.
Regulates Body Temperature
For general everyday needs, enough water is consumed if fluids are taken in with meals and throughout the day. In addition to drinking, water can be obtained through eating a variety of foods. However, when exposed to hot and humid weather or when exercising, it is important to drink extra water to help maintain your body temperature. Enough water allows your body to sweat to cool itself off. The American Council on Exercise recommends drinking before, during and after exercise and to not wait until feeling thirsty. Without enough water, your body may not be able to cool itself properly, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and may even be fatal.
Prevents Muscle Fatigue
Water needs can vary from day to day based on your activity level and if any illness is being experienced. While more research is needed to determine the role that inadequate water intake plays in the disease process, the United States Department of Agriculture warns that low water intake can lead to muscle cramps and impaired cognitive function. Symptoms of dehydration such as poor muscle coordination, muscle cramping, confusion and irritability should be addressed by a physician. Reduced urine output, lack of sweating and lack of tear production are other warning signs. Without proper hydration, you may lapse into a coma, which may become fatal.
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