We have all heard that hydration is vital – the cornerstone of fitness and health.
And, given the fact that the human body is about 60 percent water, it seems logical that we should ensure adequate water intake.
With that said, I don’t entirely agree with the generic recommendation of drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day, as we are all different, and some folks would need more water than others.
While the recommendation isn’t entirely accurate, drinking water is essential. Here are four health benefits of adequate water intake:
Hydration Greatly Affects Cognitive Function and Energy Levels
Hydration status heavily influences our brains, and research has shown that as little as one to three percent dehydration can impair cognitive function.
More specifically, two percent dehydration has been shown to impair concentration, lower subjective mood, and demotivate subjects.
Less than two percent dehydration has been shown to lower energy levels, cause fatigue, and lower overall brain function in young men and women.
Water Can Help Treat and Prevent Headaches
When most of us get a headache, we immediately reach for a painkiller, which, in most cases, isn’t the best option.
Indeed, research has shown that dehydration can cause migraines and headaches in some folks. Some studies have shown that drinking water almost immediately relieved symptoms of headaches (both in terms of intensity and duration).
And while researchers argue that the type of headache matters, it’s always worth trying to treat it with some water. Even if it doesn’t fix the issue entirely, you still get to hydrate yourself.
So, the next time your head hurts, try drinking ten ounces of water and see how you feel in half an hour.
Drinking More Water Can Be Beneficial For Fat Loss
What’s the biggest roadblock when it comes to fat loss?
Exactly: dealing with hunger and cravings.
Adequate water intake can help with that on a couple of fronts:
First, water intake has been shown to help boost satiety and curb cravings. Second, drinking water can provide a small boost in metabolic rate – about five to seven percent per day. That boost is even more significant if you drink cold water, but beware not to get your throat sore.
Water intake, particularly before and during meals, has also been shown to help us feel fuller, even from smaller meals.
Water Helps With Athletic Performance
Exercise, particularly high-intensity and done in the heat causes sweating, which leads to dehydration. This, in turn, lowers our overall performance – speed, endurance, explosiveness, and motivation.
Research suggests that as little as two percent dehydration can significantly hinder our performance. What’s scary is that it’s not uncommon to lose over six percent of our water weight during intense training.
So, we should make sure to go into each workout well-hydrated and to drink enough water for the duration. This will allow us to perform optimally, feel good, and have a clear mind.
What’s more, proper hydration may decrease the oxidative stress that occurs during exercise.
