In this BIT: Why should I drink water? These water benefits and water fun facts explain just how important (and easy) it is to get enough water – and enjoy it!
Fresh. Clear. Refreshing. All of these words describe water, something that most of us drink daily. However, in our modern world, we have countless alternative drink options such as juice, soda, milk, chocolate milk, and coffee and countless other beverages. With all of these fun options, it is easy to say no to water and have a more tasty and fun alternative. However, despite its simple taste, vast availability, and affordability (most restaurants will serve free tap water), water holds countless benefits. Keep reading to find why water is still our number one daily favorite drink and you too will want to pour yourself a glass.
Did you know that all humans are made of 70% of water? Hence it is important to replenish our body with water to make sure it functions properly. First and foremost, water helps our skin be (and stay) clear, which as teenagers (and adults) we all want. As a protective barrier preventing fluid loss, our skin contains lots of water. When we are dehydrated, our skin becomes dry and that leads to excess oil production, which leads to those dreaded breakouts.
Many of us play sports, or enjoy hitting the gym. However, since so much of our body is made up of water , when we sweat we in fact become dehydrated. It is especially important when we exercise to keep drinking water to maintain peak performance, high energy levels, a good body cooling response and more.
When we drink water, and we are well hydrated our nutrients and hormones are stimulated to be properly absorbed and function. These nutrients and hormones trigger endorphins (hormones that make us happier) in our brains to make us feel good. Water is also needed to convert other properties into endorphins, such as tryptophan into serotonin.
Serotonin, while similar to dopamine, creates a long-lasting feeling of happiness or well-being. Additionally, drinking water reduces stress. This is because when we are dehydrated, our body is in a state of stress, releasing stress hormones (cortisol) into our brain. Have you ever felt stressed and didn’t know why? Maybe it was because you were dehydrated.
Water Bottle: Bring a water bottle with you throughout the day. Keep it with you at school/work, in your room, while you are traveling on a bus or in a car, at extracurriculars, and on your desk. This way, water is at a hands reach and you can easily sip it throughout the day. Having a cute water bottle can also motivate you to keep your water near you.
Fruits & Veggies: Lots of fruits and vegetables have high water content, they are a great way to eat your water! Cantaloupe and watermelon are made of 90% of water! Such a delicious and yummy way to add more water to your diet. Other foods with high water content include:, strawberries, lettuce, spinach, peaches, pineapple, celery, broccoli, bell peppers, and more.
Morning: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning (hack: put one on your bedside table every night), and start the day feeling refreshed. We lose a lot of fluid while we sleep so it’s a good idea to start the day with a glass of water as soon as we wake up.
Every Meal: Have a glass of water with every meal, and try to drink water with snacks too.
Jazz Up Your Water: Sometimes drinking water may seem dull as its flavor is so plain. To spice up water, squeeze a wedge of lemon, lime, orange or create a pitcher of water with cut up slices of cucumber like they do in a spa or a fancy hotel. I also like on a hot day adding a few mint leaves for that refreshing taste. Lastly, carbonate your water and jazz up your water with some bubbles.
We hope that these water fun facts inspire you to drink more water today and everyday, and make feel a small bit of happiness by being more hydrated.
For more happiness check out our Mood Boost page.
Featuring quick videos created for teens by teens.
Sources:
United States Geological Survey
These water fun facts and water benefits are sure to make you want to hydrate today!
