BROCKTON – Water is an essential and arguably the most important nutrient that the human body requires, and the benefits of drinking enough of it are immense.
More than half of the human body is comprised of water and most cells in the body require it, therefore if there is not enough water coming into the body then organs and tissues may not be able to function optimally.
Water aids with digestion and organ function, helps transport nutrients throughout the body, helps to support immune function, regulates temperature, and helps to rid the body of waste through urine, perspiration, and bowel movements.
Water also protects our spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, assists with healing and repairing tissues, and cushions and lubricates joints.
Water is essential for healing and repairing tissues in the body. When a muscle gets used or injured, it goes through a repair process.
The cells which are responsible for this repair process (myofibroblasts) are made up of 80% water, therefore there needs to be enough water available so these cells can function and do their jobs. Cartilage is another thirsty tissue which is comprised of 60% water and helps cushion bones at each joint.
Synovial fluid is a substance that lubricates our joints, reduces friction, absorbs shock, and delivers oxygen and nutrients to local tissues within the joint space. Water can help to make synovial fluid less thick, which allows for more mobility and range of motion within the joint.
Muscles, bones, cartilage, and tissues function optimally when they are saturated in fluid and heal better with the presences of water. When there is not enough fluid surrounding these tissues, one may find themselves dealing with inflammation, pain, or muscle cramping.
Our bodies are intelligent and prioritize our most vital tissues by distributing fluids to organs first so they can function to keep our body alive. If we are only putting enough water in our bodies for basic organ function, we may be depriving other cells and tissues of the water that is required for optimal function.
If there is not enough water coming into the body, our organs (including our digestive organs, heart, brain, etc.) will steal it from other tissues (muscles, bones, cartilage, synovial fluid, etc.) which can cause deterioration of those structures. Staying well hydrated can also help to make blood less thick which may help to lower our risk of cardiovascular disease.
Our bodies regulate the amount of water and holds onto what it needs and gets rid of any excess. Some of the signs to look for that may indicate dehydration include yellow or dark yellow urine, strong-smelling urine, muscle cramping (aka Charlie-horses), constipation, dry skin, dry mouth or feeling thirsty.
If urine is very light yellow then you are likely well-hydrated, but if not, then there is no better time to grab a glass and fill it up!
If you are not a fan of water or don’t enjoy the taste, there are other ways that you can ensure you are hydrating adequately. Drinking herbal teas, adding different flavours or ice to water can be great ways to change the taste or make it more enjoyable.
Fresh fruit or vegetable slices (cucumber, lemon, lime, orange, strawberry, pineapple, etc.) can be added for flavour and may even encourage you to drink more of it.
Try to always keep a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day and choose water at mealtimes as it can assist with digestion. In Canada we are extremely lucky to have a vast supply of fresh water, so please, go ahead and enjoy this free, natural medicine that can help improve your health in so many ways!
For more information about any of the free services offered by your local Family Health Team ask your doctor or nurse practitioner during your next visit, visit the website www.afhto.ca or google ‘family health team locations’.
Holly DeVisser is a Registered Kinesiologist with the Brockton and Area Family Health Team.