Our bodies require water to regulate body temperature, moisten tissues and cells, and transport nutrients and oxygen to different parts of the body. Water also acts as a lubricant that cushions joints and the spinal cord, preventing injury and damage. Without water, our bodies cannot eliminate waste through urine or sweat. Therefore, when our body signals thirst, it is important to drink water immediately and never ignore it.

While the primary reason to keep drinking water is for survival, it is important to remember that drinking adequate water also helps our body function normally. Here are seven reasons why one must drink adequate water every day:

1. Maintains fluid balance in our body
Our body has about 60% water and other fluids, and any amount more or less causes an imbalance. Water and these fluids produce saliva, aid digestion, circulation, transportation of nutrients, and maintain body temperature. Less water can interfere with these processes, leading to illnesses and diseases.

2. Retains optimal brain functionality
Water plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of brain cells. It helps them send and receive signals and communicate with each other. Additionally, water regulates the supply of nutrients to the brain cells and carries away toxins and waste material from the brain. Water also helps in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters and aids in retaining memory.

3. Prevents dehydration
If our body loses more fluids than we intake, it is called dehydration. Dehydration can lead to complications like severe exhaustion, brain swelling, seizures, coma, kidney failure, and even death. Hence, drinking at least eight full glasses of water daily is necessary to keep ourselves adequately hydrated.

4. Improves metabolism
Water can improve metabolism in both men and women. Even mild dehydration can adversely affect our metabolism. By drinking water, our body’s metabolism process is stimulated, generating heat production and spending more energy, which helps maintain healthy BMI levels. Additionally, drinking water can suppress appetite and prevent overeating, thus avoiding high body mass gain. Water also aids the body in burning fat and converting it into energy.

5. Filters waste
Water is the major component of urine and sweat and keeps stools soft. Inadequate urine is a sign of dehydration that can cause other health issues. Additionally, a lack of water can cause stools to become hard and cause constipation. Therefore, drinking adequate water prevents toxins from settling in our bodies, causing conditions like kidney stones or gout.

6. Keeps bones and joints healthy
Our body requires calcium to maintain healthy bones. Water is important in transporting calcium and other essential nutrients to the bones and joints. It lubricates the joints and prevents cartilage from pressing against each other, which can cause wear and tear over time. Moreover, water helps flush out toxins and other deposits from the joints and bones, which can help reduce the risk of arthritis and other bone and joint disorders.

7. Maintains skin health
Our skin contains a significant amount of water and acts as a barrier to prevent fluid loss. Without enough water intake, our skin can look dehydrated, and wrinkles can start to form. Drinking adequate water not only helps our kidneys work properly but also helps our body eliminate wastes and toxins without adversely affecting the skin.