Water is often overlooked as one of the most important nutrients for improving our health and our physiques. Our bodies can contain anywhere from 55%-75% water depending on the individual and most experts suggest an intake of around 2 litres a day for proper body function (this can vary depending on activity levels, temperature, diet, size, body fat levels etc….. I personally aim for around 2-4 litres off season and around 3-5 litres pre-contest.
Before I share some of the benefits of water I would just like to add that other liquids you may ingest like coffee, tea and sugar free sodas are not to be included towards your daily water consumption. Coffee for example can have a diuretic effect on the body and you will need to drink extra water to compensate for this.
Here are some of the many benefits of drinking water!
- Your brain is around 90% water so making sure you are adequately hydrated will mean you will think better, feel more alert and concentrate for longer. This means you’ll have more energy to complete your workouts and be able to zero in better on the muscles you are specifically working.
- It helps you to digest your food, vitamins and supplements better for improved muscle gains.
- It helps you remove toxins from the body better which has the awesome side effect of allowing you to lose body fat easier.
- It can relieve headaches.
- It can prevent cramping.
- It can help you go to the bathroom better (especially if your fibre intake is adequate).
- It can make your skin healthier and look younger.
- It can help your immune system function properly.
- It can reduce hunger pangs during pre-contest dieting (often people can mistake thirst for hunger).
- It can improve your mood instantly.
- It can help to lubricate your joints (this becomes more important as you get older!)
- It can reduce fluid retention.
I can remember reading an article one time that stated if your body is dehydrated by just 2% it can reduce you performance mentally and physically by 20%! I totally agree! When you consider this and all the other benefits water provides why would you skimp on something that you can drink for free? Drink up!!