Water Benefits Your Mind and Body

We all know that drinking water is good for us physically, but did you know that it is also good for your mental health?

You should be drinking your daily intake of water not just for physical reasons such as its help with digestion, keeping you regular, weight loss, bad breath, and the boost it gives to our immune system, even though they are reason enough on their own. The emotional benefits of drinking enough water may surprise you and hopefully encourage you to reach for that glass if you don’t already have your recommended daily amount.

We always advise speaking to a doctor or physician before embarking on a new diet.

Here are our top reasons why water is good for your mental health:

When you are dehydrated and haven’t drunk enough water, your heart has to work harder to pump oxygen around the body thus making you feel more tired. Drinking water boosts your body’s circulation, and extra oxygen is sent around the body, making you more alert and energized.

Studies have shown that when dehydrated, people have higher levels of cortisol in their bodies. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone because, during times of high stress, cortisol levels spike. Cortisol also curbs functions of your body that it deems not necessary during these times of high stress. If you have high levels of cortisol in your body, you will find it harder to concentrate, be irritable, have headaches, and can sometimes gain weight. Drink more water to stay hydrated to be more able to deal with daily problems.

Ever seen people drinking a glass of water before eating a meal? Water is a natural appetite suppressant, helping you to eat less but stay fuller and more satisfied. Studies into drinking cold water have indicated that this may help speed up a body’s metabolism as the body has to work harder to bring the water up to body temperature.

Drinking water helps the kidneys to flush out toxins from the body. When we don’t drink enough, the kidneys don’t have the amount of fluid they need to do their job properly. Severe dehydration can also lead to kidney damage.

There have been multiple studies conducted that have shown that there is a link between dehydration and anxiety, depression, confusion, and fatigue. A study in 2018 found that out of the 3000 adults taking part, those who drank more water had a lower risk of depression and anxiety compared to those who drank less.

We’re not saying drinking water is a cure-all solution, however, it does help and is a cheap, available option that improves your mood and general well-being.

Even though drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, for those of you who just can’t stand the taste of water, you do have a few options. There are many foods out there that are delicious and water-based that will help with hydration:

We’re always looking for ways to optimize our health and do what we can to keep our bodies and minds in the best shape possible. At Sportsclub, we have the facilities, the professionals, and the community to keep fitness fresh and exciting. We are all working towards the best version of ourselves, whether that is through new group exercise classes, personal training sessions, or laps in the pool.

Join Sportsclub today, you’ll fit right in!