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We’ve all heard that drinking eight glasses of water a day is essential for good health but why? Why is it that water leaves us felling healthier and refreshed? Can drinking too much water actually be detrimental to our bodies and our wellbeing? The human body is about 70 per cent water and our blood is made of mostly water so obviously we need water to survive but what is it actually doing for us?

Dehydration

The state of dehydration caused by drinking too much alcohol, extreme heat or excessive exercise without water is detrimental to our bodies. Dehydration can lead to joint pains, headaches and constipation and by drinking water you help to combat these symptoms. If your urine has a strong odour and colour it may be a sign that you are not getting enough water through your body.

When to drink water

It is not essential to drink water constantly, as some people may think. If you live in a hot climate or exercise often your water intake will need to be higher than that of a regular person. Remember that fruits also have high water content so you can also get water in to your system that way. Try replacing carbonated, sugary drinks with water as the sugars in frizzy drinks are refined and have no nutritional value.

Other benefits

Water is also thought to help flush the body of harmful toxins and is often used in diets as a food substitute. Although you may feel slightly fuller after a big glass of water there is no nutritional value in water and it should never replace food. If you eat when you are bored consider drinking a glass of water and you may even see some weight loss benefits.

Everything in moderation

Drinking too much water can leave you feel bloated and uncomfortable. Drink water as you feel thirsty and as with everything else, water should be consumed in moderation.

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