Chances are you have heard the advice to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this rule may be helpful to remember, experts state that your water intake depends on many factors, including your health, how active you are and the climate in which you live.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that your body needs more water when you are in hot climates, more physically active, running a fever or experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. It is important to drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated and experience its health benefits.
Regulates body temperature: Did you know that you and your child’s bodies are programmed to remain at a specific internal temperature at all times? If you get cold, your body reacts by releasing heat. When you’re hot, your body works to cool itself by sweating. Drinking plenty of water helps to control your overall temperature.
Lubricates joints: Water quenches your children’s thirst while also lubricating their joints. It helps provide a cushion to balance your body when lifting something heavy or running. A lack of water can put you at risk for various health problems such as joint damage, which can painfully impact day-to-day life. Protect your family’s joints from their arms to their toes by drinking plenty of water.
Keeps skin healthy: Our skin is an organ and is made up of cells that need to be hydrated. Lack of water can make your skin look (and feel) dry, flaky or tight, almost like a dried-out sponge. The skin expands when it is hydrated — plenty of water makes it looks more vibrant and healthy!
Gets rid of waste: Another benefit of water? It helps get rid of waste from the foods we eat. Good digestive health requires plenty of water and fiber (such as vegetables, beans and brown rice) to remove waste from our bodies. A balanced diet helps shed harmful toxins.
Controls calories: Drinking a glass of water before each meal helps fill your stomach. It can help you feel less hungry and reduce the chance of overeating. Eating food with high water content (such as fruits, vegetables, oatmeal and beans) can also help you feel full faster. Water allows the liver to do its job of turning fat into energy.
Water plays an important role in your body’s overall health. So make sure you and your family are meeting your daily water needs. Remember, it can be dangerous to drink too much water. Contact your doctor if you have any questions about proper hydration or to learn more about the benefits of drinking water.
Dr. Miles Masatsugu is a medical director with CalOptima, the health insurance provider for thousands of adults and children throughout Orange County.
