Your health: Healthy lifestyle-
Are you drinking enough water?

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Most of us do not realise how important water is for our health and consequently do not drink enough. This is not just only important in summer. It is important to drink plenty of water all year round.

Did you know that:

• water makes up around 70% of our body and protects and cushions our vital organs and joints. Since human blood is 95% water, water is essential in carrying vital nutrients and oxygen to every cell in our body.



• water is very important for our kidneys which are like giant filters that clean our blood around twenty times an hour.



• water plays a significant part in weight loss. Water is great for dieters because it has no calories, acts as an appetite suppressant, revs up your metabolism, alleviates water retention, relieves constipation, fights fatigue and flushes impurities from the body.



• drinking the right amount of water is underrated as one of the best things you can do for your health. When we are dehydrated, the heart must work harder, and the kidneys operate inefficiently. Drinking the right amount of water regularly can greatly enhance your overall health and can act as a preventative measure against common colds and flu.

How much water should I drink each day?

Most of us need between 1.5 and 2.5 litres each day. But if the weather is hot or you are exercising, you need more.

What about tea and coffee?

Tea and coffee are okay in moderation, but larger amounts are not good substitutes for water - both these drinks contain caffeine, which make your body lose fluid.

How do I know if I am drinking enough water?

One of the best ways to recognise dehydration is by the colour of your urine. Water excreted from the body that is a darker yellow means you are not getting enough water - a paler yellow is a better indicator that you are drinking enough water. And finally remember that to have a healthy water intake, convenience is a must, so if you are out, carry a bottle of water with you and try keeping a bottle on your desk at work.

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