Water

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Water is the main constituent of the human body and it varies throughout life. On average we have 65% water in our body. Water is not evenly distributed in the body. The most water-rich organs are the heart, the brain and the lungs. The elimination of water is done through excretions, breathing and sweating. To keep the body healthy, water loss must always be offset by inputs. If you are not drinking enough, your body will not be able to perform at its highest potential and, at its worst, can have serious consequences – including back pain.

 

How much water to drink per day? 

It depends on the season, ambient temperature, level of physical activity, quality of diet, gender and corpulence. The best advice is to always let your thirst be your guide. Listen to what your body is telling you. When you are thirsty, do not ignore it. Drink enough water to quench it because if you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already late. By the time your brain signals you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Warning signs of dehydration include weakness, low blood pressure, dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, and headaches.

 

Eat your water

Sources of water also include foods, such as fruits and vegetables which contain a high percentage of water. Do not forget that drinking soda, coffee or tea do not rehydrate, in fact they do the opposite because they are filled with artificial sweeteners and caffeine. The same goes for a high-salt diet, it will dehydrate you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE MAIN BENEFITS OF WATER

 

 

 

 

 

Brain → stimulates the brain, a good brain function with concentration and less memory loss

 

Good for the heart

 

Stomach and intestines → improves digestion and combats constipation (water + fiber)

 

Gives energy, relieves fatigue (first signs of dehydration)

 

Kidneys →  helps to dilute salts and minerals

Regulates the temporal temperature

Less migraines, cramps

What’s water have to do with my back?

In between each vertebrae lies a disc which are mainly made up of water. The intervertebral disc is the largest avascular structure of the body: it is nourished by imbibition. It is both a ligament and a shock absorber. The discs are unable to do their job unless they are fully hydrated or at least,  they offer less support to the spine.

 

Less shock absorption → More stress on the spine → Swelling → Pain and discomfort

 

During the day when we are standing up, they slowly become dehydrated, then at night when we are laying down, they rehydrate themselves again as long as there is enough water in your body.Your discs work hard to stay hydrated during the day, but that is challenging in an upright position. To help your discs stay hydrated, be sure to stay hydrated and move frequently throughout the day.