step to staying healthy (Submitted photo)
Commentary by Adam Timm
Water is a vital nutrient to the human body. We can only survive a couple days without water and proper hydration is important to our daily health and performance.
Our body carries out many functions that are greatly impacted if we are not properly hydrated.
We need proper hydration for our kidneys to perform effectively. The kidneys function to filter our blood and keep our electrolytes balanced. They also work to eliminate waste and extra fluid in the body. Another organ, the skin, is the first line of defense against unwanted substances entering our body and relies heavily on fluid intake to effectively provide this barrier. The skin can become dry, wrinkled, or cracked when lack of hydration occurs. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps to keep our body functioning properly for daily activities.
Athletic performance also requires attention to fluid intake. During exercise the body sweats to regulate body temperature. Fluid loss during sweating can lead to dehydration if proper fluid intake has not occurred. Loss of fluid and dehydration also leads to decreased blood volume and an increase in heart rate to compensate for the lower blood volume. Therefore, it is very important to drink water and possibly sports drinks before, during, and after exercise to avoid the negative effects of dehydration.
Drinking filtered water can help to clean the body and alleviate many health problems. Hydration is an area of focus at Concept 7 Fitness as part of our 7 Lifestyle Principles. Water is inexpensive and accessible almost anywhere.
Tips for better hydration.
- Carry a good water bottle with you at all times.
- Drink 12 ounces of water immediately upon waking.
- Drink about 64 ounces of water throughout the day (more if exercising or in hot weather).
Improve your health today by simply drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Establishing this habit will have lasting impact on how you look, feel, and perform.
