The Importance of Water

Making water a consistent part of your diet is an excellent step towards better health. Avni Jain, MD, family medicine doctor with Adventist HealthCare Adventist Medical Group, has some great tips on how water can help promote healthy body functions.

Q – WHY DO WE NEED TO DRINK WATER?

Dr. Jain– Water is an essential element for body function, it can support your organs, hydrate your body, and assist with digestion, joint lubrication, kidney function, healthy skin and brain function. Dehydration and even organ damage can occur if a person doesn’t consume enough water.

Q – HOW MUCH WATER DO I NEED TO DRINK?

Dr. Jain – According to The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, women should consume about 11.5 cups of water a day and men should aim for 15.5 cups of water a day.

Q – WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF WATER I NEED?

Dr. Jain – There are several factors that can impact the amount of water you should be drinking daily. These include:

Working and Living in Hot Temperatures- Living in warmer temperatures will require you to consume more water to prevent dehydration.
Exercise – Drink water when you exercise to help replace the water you lose while sweating.
Illness – When you’re sick, drinking water can help replace lost nutrients.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding – Drinking more water can promote healthy growth for your baby and it can support the changes your body is experiencing.
Age- Older adults may need more water than younger adults due to changes in kidney function and body composition.
Gender- Men typically require more water than women due to their larger body size and muscle mass.

QUICK TIPS TO HELP YOU DRINK MORE WATER:

Carry a bottle of water with you every day.
Substitute other drinks with water to reduce your sugar and calorie intake.
Add lemon or other fruits to your water, giving it an enhanced taste.
Give yourself a goal of how much water you want to consume in a day.
Make it a habit to drink water with your meals, this process can support healthy digestion.
Place a glass or bottle of water within easy reach throughout the day, so you're more likely to drink it.
Drinking through a straw can make it easier to drink and it can help you consume more water without even realizing it.
Use a phone app or other reminder system to encourage you to drink water at regular intervals throughout the day.

Sources: Mayo Clinic, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Health Tip of the Week is for educational purposes only. For additional information, consult your physician. Please feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.