HYDRATION – IT’S A MUST DO, NOT AN OPTION

The human brain is composed of 95% water; blood is 82% water; the lungs are nearly 90% water. Water is also the single most critical nutrient for health, growth, and development. Water is critical to the balance of all the body's systems, including the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys and muscles.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Water has so many health benefits. Health benefits include the following -

SKIN – Hydration will help decrease and prevent the appearance of wrinkles.

JOINTS - Water is extremely important to the joints. Synovial fluid contains water; if you become dehydrated, less synovial fluid is available to protect the joints.

This can lead to excess stress on the joints during intense weight sessions.

MIND AND BODY - Water is essential for nutrient absorption and many chemical reactions in the body for overall health, including proper brain function and improvements in memory.

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM - Water helps improve the digestive process and is essential in maintaining a healthy urinary tract and digestive system.

Water is important to properly metabolize food and will help reduce constipation.

Drinking sufficient amounts of water assists the body in processing and transporting nutrients throughout the body and assists the body to excrete any waste products once they are metabolized.

REDUCES FATIGUE - Although water does not provide energy in the same way carbohydrates and fat do, it plays an important role in energy transformation.

Water is the medium in which all energy reactions take place. If you become dehydrated you will become lethargic, may experience cramping.

Dehydration may lead to reduced training performance in the days following.

HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS - Water can suppress appetite naturally and increases the body's ability to metabolize stored fat.

REDUCES FLUID RETENTION - The body perceives dehydration as a threat to survival and begins to hold on to every drop.

Water is stored in extracellular spaces (outside the cell) which may result in the swelling of feet, legs and hands.

Regularly drinking plenty of water will eliminate this problem.

HELPS BUILD MUSCLE - Water is needed to transport nutrients to your cells and transport waste out of the body. Water helps form the structures of protein and glycogen.

In order to move and flex your muscles, you need water. If your body is dehydrated, your muscles will be deprived of electrolytes and cramp. Since muscles are controlled by nerves, without the proper water and electrolyte balance, muscle strength and control will also be impaired.

It is essential that you stay hydrated if you want to build muscle and experience optimal performance in the gym.

Remember – hot days and exercise will mean your body needs extra water to replenish your body’s water stores. Ensure you drink more water on hot days and after intense workouts.