Why is Water Wonderful?

Back when I was a kid (insert eye roll), water was water. It wasn't marketed like it is now. Brands like Dasani and Aquafina weren't introduced until the 1990s. I didn't like to drink water as a kid and I remember the first time I drank soda. I was amazed at how good it tasted. As I grew up, I learned that drinking water is so much better for you. I think everyone knows they should drink more water and less caffeinated, sugary drinks. But does everyone know why or how much they need? I have found that the answer to both questions is "no".

Let's handle the why first. Water keeps the soft tissues in your body, such as your eyes, nose, and mouth, moistened. Water lubricates your joints, carries nutrients and oxygen to your cells, and regulates body temperature. Drinking water helps to flush out waste products thus helping your kidneys and liver. The discs between your vertebrae should contain more than 66% water in their composition. The discs can absorb available water which can help reduce spinal pain and stiffness.

Dehydration can range from a mild to a more serious condition requiring you to go to the ER. Symptoms may include: extreme thirst, dry mouth, decreased and/or dark urine, headache, constipation, sluggishness/fatigue, muscle cramping, sugar cravings, dizziness, weakness, light-headedness, and confusion. Your eyes may appear sunken and you might have a rapid heartbeat and/or breathing. Seek urgent care if you are experiencing the above symptoms.

Besides not drinking enough water, your body loses water every day through normal breathing, perspiration, and using the bathroom. I have been telling patients for years to avoid caffeine due to its diuretic effects. However, according to a post I saw on WebMD from February 2020, this is more accurate: "Caffeinated beverages do not generally contribute to dehydration. In the short term, caffeine may have a mild diuretic effect in people who do not normally consume caffeine, but this is not the case for those who habitually drink caffeinated beverages. All beverages, including those that contain caffeine, help maintain hydration." I still say, consume in moderation. 

And now, how much water does each person need? Although everyone is familiar with eight 8 oz. glasses of water per day, this does not apply to everyone. In general, most people should consume a half-ounce to a full ounce of water for each pound they weigh every day. Add more if you exercise, spend time outside during hot weather, are pregnant, are very active, or have certain health conditions. You can also get water from the foods you eat. The top water-containing foods are lettuce, cucumbers, watermelon, tomatoes, apples, celery, cantaloupe, broth, bell peppers, cauliflower, and zucchini.