Did you know that 60 percent of our body and 90 percent of our skin is made up of water? That’s why it is the second most important thing our bodies need next to oxygen.
At the Skin & Vein Center, we cannot emphasize enough to our patients the importance of drinking water when it comes to skin protection. Almost every job our body does requires water, which is why we can generally survive for some time with no food, but without water, our bodies last just a few days. Often times, when we get a headache or feel exhausted, particularly on a hot day, these problems can be remedied simply by having a tall glass of water.
While studies differ on how much we should drink (8 glasses of 8 ounces per day versus drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water), one thing is clear—the overall benefits are tremendous.
On the surface, you will notice that drinking water can lead to:
- More energy
- Bright, clear eyes
- A radiant complexion
But what you don’t see is that water also helps you:
- Digest and absorb food
- Increase fat metabolism
- Regulate body temperature and blood circulation
- Carry nutrients in the bloodstream and oxygen to cells
- Remove toxins and other wastes from your kidneys
I know what you are saying. “Water, really? But water from the tap is filled with chemicals and tastes terrible.”
To remove the chemicals, you should consider getting a filter for your home. Still not good enough? Let me offer some other alternatives.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables—Also a great source of anti-oxidants
- Milk
- Juice—Due to the high calories and sugar some juices contain, you may wish to dilute this some with sparking water.
- Herbal Tea
So put down those colas. Quit drinking so much coffee. If you want a true pick-me-up for your day, there nothing quite like a refreshing glass of H2O.
