Drinking Water Week was started more than 40 years ago by the American Water Works Association to spread information about how vital water is to our daily lives. According to the US National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the average recommended daily water intake is 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 liters for women.
Drinking Water Week takes place in the first full week of May each year, which is May 1-7 this year. To celebrate, here are some facts and benefits of drinking water!
Fun Facts About Water
- Around 60% of the human body is made up of water
- Around 71% of the earth is covered by water
- When babies are born, they are 78% water
- Cucumbers are 96% water, zucchinis are 95% water, and watermelons are 92% water
Benefits of Drinking Water
- It Lubricates the joints
Cartilage, which is on joints and disks of your spine, is made of 80% water. By drinking more water, you are helping your joints maintain their ability to absorb shock. Dehydration can lead to joint pain.
- It forms saliva and mucus
Saliva helps us digest our food and mucus protects our mouth, nose, and eyes and keeps them moist.
- It delivers oxygen throughout your body
Blood is made up of more than 90% water and blood carries oxygen to all of the different parts of your body.
- It boosts skin health
Drinking water keeps your skin healthy and hydrated.
- It cushions tissues like the brain and spine
Drinking water helps keep sensitive tissues like the bones and your brain at optimal levels of moisture to keep them protected.
- It regulates body temperature
Water that is stored in the skin helps regulate your body temperature when you are hot by producing sweat. When the sweat evaporates, it cools down the body.
- It helps the digestive system
The bowel needs water to function properly. Without water, you are more prone to digestive problems like constipation and heartburn.
- It flushes body waste
Water is needed for the process of digestion and removal of urine and feces.
- It maintains blood pressure
Without water, your blood can become thicker, causing a higher blood pressure.
- It helps your airways
When you are dehydrated, your airways can restrict to prevent water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse.
- It transfers minerals and nutrients
Minerals and nutrients dissolve in water so that they can reach different parts of the body.
- It prevents kidney damage
The kidneys remove waste and extra fluid from the body. Dehydration can lead to kidney stones and other problems.
All living things rely on water to thrive. It plays such an important part in our lives, aiding bodily functions and making us healthier. Remember to stay hydrated and appreciate this amazing resource!
Written by: Viven Chen
Date: May 16, 2022
Sources:
https://www.awwa.org/Events-Education/Drinking-Water-Week
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/290814#benefits
https://purewater.eu/en/fun-facts-water/
