Are you one of those people who have to force themselves to drink water even in the heat? Not for long! If you know these 7 effects that water has on your body and your psyche, it will be easier for you to reach for the water glass in the future.
The human body consists of about 60 percent water. Without fluids it does not function properly, we feel tired and listless. That is why we should drink 1.5 to 2 liters of fluid every day, recommends the Nutrition Society. Even more, of course, when it’s hot and you’re doing sports. The rule of thumb is: 8 glasses of water per day – this covers the body’s fluid requirements.
These 7 effects that 8 glasses of water per day have on us prove that water not only helps against thirst, but can even be a true miracle cure. They will convince even water-haters!
1. You stay fit and motivated
We need to supply our body with enough fluids, otherwise our motivation decreases and we become tired and listless. This is especially important during intense exercise or heat. As soon as we sweat, our body loses fluid. If we do sport, this can even be quite a lot and we need to replenish our water reservoir. This is the only way to stay fit and feel good.
2. You can think better
For us to function well, our brains need to be hydrated. Studies show that even mild dehydration can impair many brain functions. Among other things, concentration, memory and mood suffer.
3. You get headaches less often
Very often, headaches can also indicate a lack of fluids. For some people, this can also be the trigger for migraines. In some cases, drinking water can relieve the symptoms of headaches.
4. You have a flatter stomach
No one likes to talk about it, but infrequent bowel movements and constipation can put a strain on the body and lead to an annoying bloated belly. The simple but effective treatment: drink more water! Hydration makes digestion work better. You can prevent bloated bellies and painful constipation. Drinking enough water can also reduce the risk of kidney stones.
Tip: If you generally tend to have a bloated belly, it is better to drink still water instead of sparkling water.
5. The hangover is less severe
Most of us are familiar with the unpleasant consequences of a night of partying. The keyword is hangover. To get rid of thirst, tiredness and headaches the day after the party, it helps to supply your body with enough fluids, preferably in the form of water.
6. You lose weight more easily
Drinking water is essential for the survival of the human body; our cells need fluid. This is the only way our entire metabolism works, and if you drink enough, you can stimulate these processes. By the way: thirst is often misinterpreted as hunger. As a result, you consume unnecessary calories, although you could actually just drink a glass of water. Avoid calorie-containing drinks such as lemonades or juices, so you can also save calories.
7. Your skin gets better
By now we know how important water is for the body. Our cells need a lot of fluid to function. Drinking water has a positive side effect on our skin. The cells become plump and replenished and this also shows in the skin. It becomes firm and plump. For example, unattractive dimples caused by cellulite cannot be washed away, but water ensures that they at least do not spread more than necessary.
How much water should you drink every day ?
That varies greatly and depends on your age and weight. But there is one rule of thumb that you should follow: an adult should drink about 30 to 40 milliliters of fluid per kilogram from drinks and food every day. So a woman weighing 60 kg would have to consume at least 1.8 liters (30 ml x 60 kg = 1800 ml) of fluid per day. Pregnant women (35 ml/kg) and breastfeeding women (45 ml/kg) should consume slightly more.
Tip for water-haters: It tastes better as infused water !
Many people drink too little water because it simply tastes too bland. If you belong to the water-hater faction, then you should start to spice up your water. Instead of reluctantly drinking it plain, add a slice of lime, lemon or orange. The citrus fruits provide flavor without adding calories to the glass. Cucumber slices or mint leaves are also a great way to make the water tastier.
Just try it out and put different fruits or herbs in a carafe and fill it up with still water or sparkling water. This way you can make the trendy drink Infused Water in a few seconds!
