Hydration Health
Ethan Sullivan
| 01-02-2024
· Lifestyle Team
Did you know that 70% of the human body is made up of water? This vital liquid plays a crucial role in transporting nutrients, aiding digestion, facilitating waste elimination, and ensuring the smooth functioning of various bodily processes.
When dehydration sets in, it can lead to undesirable conditions such as constipation, dry skin, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, palpitations, and muscle spasms.
So, how much water is enough for a person to consume daily? The answer depends on our usual living environment and our body weight. Generally, in mild climates, adults require approximately 35-40ml of water per kilogram of body weight.
To put it simply, if someone weighs 50 kilograms, they should aim to consume between 1,750 to 2,000 ml of water per day. This calculation includes water obtained from foods like rice, vegetable juices, soups, fruits, and vegetables.
In certain situations, such as high temperatures or strenuous physical labor, the body may need more water. It's essential to drink water in smaller amounts multiple times a day, roughly 150-200ml each time, with intervals of about 30-60 minutes.
Benefits of staying well-hydrated include:
1. Diluting blood to prevent concentration.
2. Boosting metabolism.
3. Moisturizing and nourishing the skin.
4. Aiding digestion.
5. Safeguarding against vision loss.
6. Preventing the formation of various types of stones.
Establishing a water-drinking routine throughout the day can enhance these benefits:
Start the day with a glass of water on an empty stomach, known as nourishing water. This helps replenish the body's water levels, purify the blood, aid kidney and liver detoxification, and promote gastrointestinal peristalsis.
Remember to hydrate during morning work breaks to sustain energy levels.
Take short breaks when working on the computer to move around and drink water, relieving work-related tension.
During afternoon tea time, indulge in a refreshing glass of water to combat midday fatigue and improve afternoon productivity.
Drinking water before meals can increase the feeling of fullness, helping to control calorie intake and prevent overeating during dinner.
Finally, consume a small glass of water half an hour to an hour before bedtime to prepare the body for overnight detoxification, but avoid excessive intake to prevent disturbances to sleep quality.
However, it's crucial to note that certain individuals should be mindful of their water intake. Patients with malignant tumors, glaucoma, central neuropathy, traumatic brain injury, renal failure, and heart failure should adjust their water consumption according to their doctor's recommendations.
For instance, heart failure patients should limit their daily water intake to 1500ml, while dialysis patients with kidney failure should not exceed 800ml per day outside of meals. Balancing hydration is key to maintaining overall health and well-being.