Good hydration is essential to health
THE 19th century poet and philosopher Henry David Thoreau once said that water is the only drink for a wise man. True enough, anyone who wishes to keep his body in good shape should take more water. From quenching one’s thirst to maintaining one’s ideal body weight, good hydration equates to good health.
In spite of this, there are still some people who tend to take this simple practice for granted. Nestlé Pure Life, makes a pitch for the importance drinking eight glasses of water every day.
Water and the environment. It is highly recommended to drink more water in hot or humid weather. It helps regulate body temperature and replaces what we lose when we perspire. Extra water intake is also advisable in cold weather especially if you perspire while wearing insulated clothing. High altitudes can trigger rapid breathing and can therefore use up more of the body’s fluid reserves.
Water and exercise. During physical activity the body loses water primarily through sweat, even in cold weather or in water. The body has several mechanisms to protect itself from the negative effects of dehydration, but thirst does not occur until the person is already dehydrated. A key to successful workouts is keeping well hydrated before, during and after exercise. The length of your workouts, heat, humidity and the amount you sweat are all major considerations for keeping your body in proper fluid balance
Water and health conditions. Certain symptoms of illnesses such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea cause our body to lose fluids. To replace lost fluids, it is best to drink plenty of water. The minor cold is also greatly alleviated with sufficient intake of fluid. Increased water intake is also advised for people with urinary track stones. For diabetics, it is advised they make water as their beverage of choice. They should also make a conscious effort to drink a glass of water with and between each meal, take water breaks instead of coffee breaks, and substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at social gatherings.
Water and pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is difficult for pregnant mothers to identify when the baby is thirsty, so it is best for moms to drink plenty of water. It is also needed when moms are already nursing to replace the fluids lost.
Water and ageing. As we grow older, our sensation of thirst diminishes. Water loss is greater among the elderly because their kidneys are less efficient. These are just some among the multitude of reasons why we need to take in sufficient amounts of drinking water daily. Although we make conscious efforts to increase our water intake, we still have to be cautious about the quality of water we drink.
Nestlé Pure Life brings us closer to achieving healthy bodies by providing safe and healthy drinking water for the whole family. It uses reverse osmosis where water passes through a filter that sifts small particles that may be harmful to the body. Essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate are then added to nourish the body.