The Crucial Role of Water to the Body

Elabor Awelu

Science has unequivocally proven that water is the elixir for the human body. It’s not only essential for staying hydrated but it also plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health. Furthermore, water can act as a remedy for certain ailments that can be alleviated through consistent hydration.

Neglecting to drink sufficient water has resulted in numerous individuals falling victim to serious illnesses, often underestimating the impact of their water intake on their well-being. This oversight is particularly common among university students, who frequently prioritise academic rigor over their hydration needs.

Because of how detrimental dehydration can be, there are often key signs that indicate when our bodies are in dire need of hydration. One of them is the debilitating headaches. When dehydration occurs, the brain temporarily contracts due to fluid loss, causing it to pull away from the skull and triggering pain. Maintaining proper hydration helps cushion the brain, potentially preventing these headaches. It’s important to note that not all headaches are solely due to stress or illness; sometimes, all you need to alleviate a severe headache is a glass of water.

Dehydration disrupts the delicate balance of electrolytes in the body, including sodium, potassium, and calcium. These electrolytes are crucial for muscle and nerve function. Staying adequately hydrated can help prevent muscle cramps and contractions. In essence, our muscles rely on water to function effectively.

Another common but often overlooked symptom of dehydration is the lack of energy. When the body isn’t properly hydrated, it can lead to feelings of fatigue and low energy levels. It’s not uncommon to see individuals feeling drained and lethargic even after minimal physical exertion. If you experience such fatigue, reaching for a glass of water may be all you need to regain your vitality.

Dehydration can also impair cognitive function. When dehydrated, the brain may not operate efficiently, leading to issues like lack of concentration, confusion, mood swings, and an inability to focus. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining cognitive function.

The skin loses its elasticity, becoming dry, tight, and itchy when one is dehydrated. Dry or cracked lips are also common signs of dehydration. Water plays a crucial role in protecting the eyes from infection, preventing dry and uncomfortable skin, and promoting saliva production in the mouth. If you experience dry skin, lips, or eyes, simply increasing your water intake can work wonders.

Monitoring your urine is a way of confirming your hydration status as its colour can be a clear indicator. Dark yellow or amber-colored urine indicates concentrated urine, a sign that your body is conserving water by excreting less fluid in your urine. Monitoring the color of your urine is a simple yet sensitive way to gauge your hydration levels and safeguard your kidney health over time.

Sweating is a vital mechanism the body uses to regulate its temperature and it can also be a way to know if you’re adequately hydrated. When you’re dehydrated, your body may reduce or even stop sweating in an attempt to conserve water. This can lead to overheating and an increased risk of heat-related illnesses. If you find that you should be sweating during physical activity but aren’t, it’s a clear sign that you need to increase your water intake. Ignoring this can potentially lead to heart disease.

In conclusion, experts recommend that men consume at least 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of water daily, while women should aim for a minimum of 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). However, environmental conditions may necessitate higher intake at times. Adequate water consumption isn’t just vital for overall well-being but also plays a substantial role in preventing various diseases and ailments.

As a student, it’s essential to take proactive steps to prioritize your hydration. Invest in a portable water bottle that you can easily carry with you everywhere on campus. By doing so, you are able to ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the day, even when the demands of your academic activities may tempt you to overlook this crucial aspect of your well-being.