Water versus Beverage

Caffeine containing beverages such as coffee and cola drinks stimulate your adrenal glands and rob your body of necessary water. Aerated drinks also contain phosphorus and result in the decrease of bone calcium. Fruit juices have a high quantity of sugar.

As a result most beverages cause more harm than good.

Wah Water!

Here are some of the important functions of water in your body:

• Digestion: Water helps the stomach in digestion when food reaches it. Inadequate water can cause constipation.
• Regulation: Water helps regulate your body temperature through perspiration. Through perspiration, or sweating, excess body heat is released and you feel cooler.
• Lubrication: The water in your body lubricates the joints when you move and enables smooth movements. Insufficient water dehydrates bone cartilage, which in turn causes joint damage.
• Weight Loss: Water contains no calories and serves as an appetite suppressant. It thus plays a major role in weight loss.

Water and Exercise

Proper hydration during exercise is important as it helps the body cool down. Drink water regularly throughout the day to make sure you are properly hydrated. More so before, during and after exercise.

Be aware of early symptoms of dehydration such as fatigue, dark urine, cramping, dry cough or a soar throat, even light headedness. Sip small amounts of water because drinking a large quantity of water at once can leave you with a bloated feeling.

Water is an essential nutrient that is required by your body. Make sure you drink enough water to stay healthy!

Author: Sushila Sharanghdhar, Registered Dietician and Managing Director, Health Education and Lifestyle Management (HEAL)