The Health Benefits of Drinking Water

What do humans, plants and animals all have in common? We all need water to survive. Staying properly hydrated is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In fact, water is ranked second in matters of survival only to oxygen. Our

bodies are made up of two-thirds water, so it's seem pretty obvious that we need to stay hydrated.Sure, food is necessary for survival in order to get other important nutrients, but a person can go up to two months without any food. However, we can only go a few days without any water.Some of the important things water does for your body include the following:

• Controls your body’s temperature through perspiration
• Flushes out toxins
• Carries nutrients to and from cells
• Provides a moist environment for tissues
• Prevents brain damage
• Helps maintain a healthy weight

It’s especially important to stay hydrated if you are an active person. Your body loses up to 3 quarts of water simply through the processes of urination, excretion and even breathing. Losing sweat through exercise will drastically increase that amount. It’s recommended to drink eight to 10 cups of water a day. However, in Las Vegas the climate is hot and dry, so we need to drink even more water to stay equally hydrated. Other things that can further dehydration include:

• High fiber foods
• Caffeine
• Alcohol

In all those situations, a few extra cups of water should be added to one’s daily intake. Dehydration can also be caused by illness. Fever, vomiting and diarrhea can result in a greater loss of bodily fluids. When a person is dehydrated from an illness, they should replenish their fluids with a sports drink. This will not only provide the water needed, but also give the person extra nutrients to better their health.Of course, many people prefer drinking sodas and juices over water because of the taste. In an attempt to increase your daily water intake while still drinking something tasty, try adding lemon or lime. Better yet, you can purchase no-calorie flavored water from your local grocery store.There are also plenty of fruits and veggies that can keep a person hydrated. Cucumber, watermelon and lettuce are just a few.It’s important to note that you shouldn’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. The feeling of thirst means you are already dehydrated. Instead, drink water on a regular basis to prevent ever feeling thirsty.In addition to staying hydrated, it’s important to get regular diagnostic scans. The experts in radiology Las Vegas patients trust can regularly check for any illness prior to feeling symptoms. This is helpful because it can prevent you from getting too ill to treat effectively. For more information about desert radiology Las Vegas, contact 702.732.6000.