Water is the body’s principal chemical component, making up, on average, 60 per cent of the body weight. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water.

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It’s common to hear that water is essential for your health. But why?

This substance makes up a majority of your body weight and is involved in many important functions, including flushing out waste from your body, regulating body temperature and helping the brain function

Here are other health benefits of drinking water

It forms saliva and mucus

Water is a main component of saliva. Saliva also includes small amounts of electrolytes, mucus, and enzymes. It’s essential for breaking down solid food and keeping your mouth healthy.

Your body generally produces enough saliva with regular fluid intake. However, your saliva production may decrease as a result of age or certain medications or therapies.

If your mouth is drier than usual and increasing your water intake isn’t helping, see your doctor.

Transports oxygen throughout the body

Blood is more than 90 per cent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Adequate fluids not only lubricate the joints, but water aids the transport of oxygen to the working muscle. Water helps remove the metabolic waste and regulates body temperature. Dehydration lowers blood volume, which forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood and oxygen throughout the body.

Replenishes fluids lost by excessive sweating

The body uses water to sweat, urinate, and have bowel movements. You need water to replenish the lost fluid from sweat. If you don’t get enough water, you may become dehydrated, and the combination of hot temperatures and dehydration can lead to serious heat-related illnesses.

It boosts skin health and beauty

Adequate water intake will help keep the skin hydrated and may promote collagen production. With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling. However, water intake alone isn’t enough to reduce the effects of ageing. This process is also connected to your genes and overall sun protection.

It aids digestion

The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.

Contrary to what some believe, experts confirm drinking water before, during, and after a meal will help the body break down the food you eat more easily. This will help you digest food more effectively and get the most out of your meals.

It prevents kidney damage

The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Insufficient water can lead to kidney stones and other problems. It also lessens the burden on the liver and kidneys through urination, perspiration and bowel movements

It lubricates the joints

Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 per cent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability, leading to joint pain.

Weight loss

Water may also help with weight loss if it is consumed instead of sweetened juices and sodas. Drinking more water while dieting and exercising may just help you lose extra kilograms. Taking water before meals can also help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.

It helps maintain blood pressure

A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.