It’s common knowledge that we cannot live without water, but what does that really mean? Water plays a crucial role in many systems and processes in the body, and a less critical but still important part in others. Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits of water:
- Water helps eliminate toxins, including the byproducts of metabolism as well as those the body takes in from the environment. Consuming an adequate amount of water helps this elimination process through urination, sweating, and exhalation.
- You need an adequate amount of water in order for a high-fiber diet—like The Prostate Diet–to be effective. Since a diet high in fiber can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer, getting enough water is critical.
- Water keeps the digestive system well-oiled. The mucous barrier in your stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) must remain well-hydrated so it can prevent acid from penetrating and damaging your gastrointestinal lining. When this barrier is healthy, it can neutralize acid as it tries to get through the barrier, thus protecting your stomach.
- Water helps to maintain homeostasis (balance) of the body by distributing the pressure of the blood throughout the body. Thus adequate water is necessary to help prevent hypertension.
- Water is like oil when it comes to the joints. The cartilage lining in your joints need adequate fluid to maintain a cushion between your bones. A lack of water can lead to inflammation and pain, which can feel like arthritis, when it is really dehydration.
- Drinking enough water helps in weight loss by helping you feel full
- Water improves bowel movements and helps to prevent constipation.
- A properly hydrated body helps the immune system operate optimally, and so the body is less likely to contract infections
- Your cells need adequate water so enzymes can move in and out of them through the cell membranes without trouble. If enzymes do not have this free movement, it can result in an untold number of problems throughout all the body’s systems.
