Problems From Not Drinking Enough Water
In order for the digestive system to function normally, to be carried from one place to another within our lovely bodies, and for it to be broken down well, we need to have enough water inside us! Water is also in every cell in our body, and affects how well each one functions. Water is important! Let’s look at how a lack of water can cause us health problems.
The importance of water in digestion
Water acts like a river in our digestive system, washing our food down our oesophagus with the help of liquid saliva, in our stomachs in the form of gastric juices, in our intestines in the form of bile, and so on. Without all these helpful, water-based digestive juices, nothing can be broken down at all, and things start to screech to a stop!
Benefits of drinking water to prevent diseases
Dehydration is also a causative factor when it comes to a wide range of diseases. If your body is taking water from your organs to perform its normal processes, you are likely to feel the results quickly.
When it comes to all the examples below, you don’t need to go crazy, measuring all your water to make sure you’re getting enough, just drink enough to fill your belly, without making yourself feel uncomfortable when you wake up, and 30 minutes before meals. Carry a bottle with you to sip more before you feel thirsty, and you’ll be golden.
The type of water you drink is also important. Try to avoid tap water. I know, bottled water is expensive, but it doesn’t need to be, if you buy it in bulk in large bottles. You could also treat yourself to a quality water filter, which can get rid of the substances found in tap water which may damage your body.
Let’s look at some examples of conditions that are particularly affected by dehydration.
Arthritis
Water is used to lubricate our joints. Arthritis, which literally means “joint inflammation”, is a general term for a number of different forms of a condition that affects millions of people around the world. To keep your joints properly cushioned, and to prevent the cartiliage from wearing away even further, drink water. Keeping hydrated will provide relief for gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.
Back pain
Some experts say that back pain is caused by dehydration alone. Dehydration certainly affects all the little disks inside our spine. Water provides the cushioning between each one. When we lie down during the night, our disks slowly rehydrate. What does this mean for people that suffer from back problems? Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, to keep your disks full of liquid and your spine happy. Also lie down for 20 minutes twice a day, and get enough rest at night!
Migraines
People that suffer from migraines know their triggers well, but could avoid them be as simple as getting enough to drink? A study was done on people who get migraines, and it was found that their headaches lessened in severity when they drank just four cups more water per day!
The key to the prevention of migraines seems to be staying hydrated, so make sure you are never without a bottle of water just in case: dehydration can hit unexpectedly.
Chronic fatigue and depression
Learning how to cleanse and re-hydrate your body can really help you with your energy levels. It can also improve brain fog, headaches, muscle pain, skin issues and cravings. Dr. Batmangheldidj, the author of the book “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water”, suggests that CFS is directly connected with constant dehydration. Make water your priority and explore this idea for yourself!
Remember…
Staying hydrated is a habit that isn’t too difficult to get into, but it takes a little time to learn a new good habit, so be patient with yourself. Simply try hydrating with at least 500ml of water first thing in the morning, a good amount 30 minutes before meals, and plenty of sips during the day. Don’t drink large quantities of water while you’re eating or after meals.
