Water: The Most Essential Nutrient of All
Embrace a New Year challenge that can radically improve your physical health and mood - reducing the intensity of your stress responses and increasing your vitality.
Water is typically the ‘forgotten’ macronutrient, which is unfortunate because it is an essential part of your nutrition. While most people can survive 3-4 weeks without food, we can only last 3-4 days without any water.
You are around 60% water by volume and it is essential to every bodily process. So, it also stands to reason that you should let yourself get thirsty again.
┃Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.
~ John 7:38
The Bible frequently uses water as a symbol of life and sustenance. Just as it is essential for physical wellbeing, it is also used to represent the source of spiritual life.
New Year Challenge: Increase Your Water Intake
Determine your fluid requirement
Develop a strategy to fulfil it
Prefer pure water over other drink options
Track your water intake
In this challenge, you will focus on increasing your water intake in order to improve your overall health and wellbeing. Some potential outcomes include:
Boosted overall health: You are around 60% water by volume and it is essential to every bodily process.
Increased energy levels: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and weakness. Drinking enough water can help keep energy levels up throughout the day.
Better digestion: Drinking water can help keep the digestive system functioning properly by helping to break down food and move waste products through the body.
Weight loss: Drinking water can help you feel full, which can lead to eating less and losing weight.
Improved physical performance: Adequate hydration is required for maintaining healthy muscles and joints, and can help improve physical performance.
Better skin health: Drinking water can help keep the skin hydrated so may improve the appearance of the skin.
Enhanced mental function: The brain is around 75% water so it makes sense that dehydration can lead to decreased cognitive function and a low mood. Drinking enough water can help improve focus, concentration and emotional stability.
Please note: Drinking water alone will not solve all your health problems. It is equally vital to have a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Drinking sufficient water is only one part of a healthy lifestyle.
