Water is undeniably the most important resource of them all. Water makes up about 71% of the Earth’s surface, and more shockingly still, about 60% of you. Although we humans can survive for about three weeks without food, without water we would die in 3 days.  The recommended daily intake of water for men is roughly 13 cups (3 liters), while the recommended daily intake for women is about 9 cups (2.2 liters).

Often, dehydration is the cause for many everyday ailments. Do you have a headache? Are you experiencing constipation? Do you crave food? Chances are you’re actually just thirsty. 

Headaches:

When you don’t drink enough water your body immediately starts to revolt. Water is pulled from your brain tissue, causing your brain to retract and pull away from your skull. As the vessels constrict, the pain receptors in your head are triggered and you experience what we call a headache. The importance of water is not to be understated!

Constipation:

If you find yourself struggling to pass bowel movements or feel uncomfortable sensations of constipation, one of the most simple ways to relieving your symptoms is to drink a liter of water. Water loosens the stool and allows for smoother processes. In tandem with exercise you can keep your body functioning properly.

Hunger:

Chances are, most of the time when you reach for that snack or candy bar you’re not actually hungry. Your caloric requirements are a result of your gender, age and weight, and snacking often pushes you over this caloric threshold and leading to weight gain. The next time you feel a little hungry between meals, try drinking a bottle of water and see if your “hunger” is sated.

By Destiny Kanu