In today’s world, there are many different ways to keep your body healthy, but nothing brings the benefits quite like hydration. Some of the best health advantages come from consuming natural liquids, such as water or green tea.
Why Water?
It’s no secret that water is good for your body, but the reasons why aren’t as well understood. Let’s break it down.
1.) Your body is made up of about 60% water. Water helps with digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and the maintenance of body temperature. Your body has a way of deciding the right amount of water to excrete as urine and the right amount to hold onto for reserves. When your body is low on fluids, your brain triggers the body’s thirst mechanism. Drink water throughout the day to prevent this feeling of thirst.
2.) Water can help your body control calories. No, water will not magically make your body lose weight, but it will get you on the right path to weight loss. A lot of weight is taken on due to beverages, such as soda, alcohol or juices with added sugar. If you substitute water for these drinks, you’re bound to see a change in your body. It’s important to consume food with higher water content because it requires more chewing and is absorbed more slowly by the body, which helps you feel full faster. A few water-rich foods to note are fruits, vegetables, soups, oatmeal, and beans.
3.) Water keeps your muscles energized. When your muscles aren’t getting the proper amount, they don’t work as well. In fact, not drinking enough water can lead to dangerous muscle fatigue. It’s important to consume a large amount of water when exercising so that your muscles can perform properly.
4.) Water helps keep you looking healthy. When you are dehydrated, your skin looks dried out and wrinkled. Your skin uses the water you consume as a protective barrier to prevent excess fluid loss.
5.) Water benefits your kidneys. Body fluids transport waste products in and out of the body on a regular basis. If you aren’t drinking enough water, your kidneys will trap the water in your body to use for other bodily functions. You will also be at higher risk for kidney stones. But by drinking enough water, you are helping your body out with urination and other natural processes.
6.) Water results in a normal bowel function. Hydration keeps things flowing and can prevent constipation. When you aren’t properly hydrated, your colon uses water to maintain hydration, and constipation is the result.
Why Green Tea?
Aside from water, green tea has been shown to have a positive impact on the body because of its numerous health benefits.
1.) Green tea contains antioxidants known as catechins. Catechins have the ability to eliminate things in the body that can result in DNA damage, certain types of cancers, blood clots, and atherosclerosis.
2.) Though it has not been fully proven, there are a number of human studies that show drinking at least two cups of green tea daily reduces the growth of cancer. Furthermore, an analysis of over twenty-two studies revealed a correlation between high tea consumption and the reduced risk for lung cancer.
3.) Green tea can help with weight loss. It has been shown to lower the bad type of cholesterol that amounts in your body, leaving you less likely to suffer from heart disease or diabetes.
Tips to Help You Drink
- Never eat a meal without pairing it with a beverage.
- Choose beverages you enjoy, even if they are not water or green tea. You are more likely to stay hydrated if you like what you are drinking. Flavored waters such as Crystal Light are a better choice than other high-sugar drinks. A slice of lemon is another easy way to spice up a glass of water.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables because of their high water content.
- Keep a bottle of water with you whenever you can.
- Consume alcoholic beverages in moderation, as they can leave you dehydrated
Sources:
WebMD
Melanie Marzillo
Research & Community Education
