The Health Benefits of Water
/by DeLois Weeks, RN, PhD
“Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.”
Water is vital to life and health. Our bodies are 55% to 78% water depending on body size. Approximately two-thirds of the body consists of water. The tissues and organs are primarily made up of water:
- Muscle 75% water
- Brain 90% water
- Bone 22% water
- Blood 83% water
Every cell in the body needs water. For example, the brain cannot function well without sufficient water and without it, you will get headaches or migraines. Fatigue and headache may be signs of dehydration.
Harmful Effects and Symptoms of Dehydration:
- Dark yellow or orange urine: Urine is typically pale yellow to clear
- Dry skin: skin is the largest body organ and requires water
- Hunger: Most people mistake hunger for the indication to eat more when it may be an indication of dehydration
More Benefits of Water:
- Regulates body temperature, and increases energy and fuel used by muscles during exercise
- Aids digestion by raising metabolism
- Works synergistically with fiber to facilitate peristalsis and relieve constipation
- Lubricates joint and muscle helping to relieve cramps and strains
- Helps fight cold, flu and other ailments like kidney stones and heart attack
- Relieves fatigue by helping to flush toxins and waste products
- Lifts mood because when the body is well hydrated, you feel happy
- Reduces the risk of bladder and colon cancer by diluting the concentration of cancer-causing agents in the urine and shortening the time they are in contact with bladder lining
“Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; …therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.”
