By Janet Grier

In the beginning, there was water.  And lots of it!  In the Bible you will find divided waters, gathered waters, flowing water and water that brings forth and sustains life.  The consumption of water is a topic that you will hear about constantly because human life cannot survive without it.

Water makes up approximately 60-75% of our weight and every system in our body depends on it. So, what else is new?  What would happen in your body if you didn’t get enough water?
 Here are some examples:

- Vital organs would not function properly because they require water to flush out toxins.
 
- Cells would not operate at full capacity if they didn’t receive the nutrients carried to them through water.

- Ears, noses and throats would have problems from the lack of a moist environment in which to function.

- Bodily functions would be impaired.  Water acts as the transportation system for the body, removing waste, delivering nutrients and it helps to keep blood flowing throughout the body.

- Body tissues lacking water would not be able to prevent the body from shock. Water acts as a lubricant in and around tissues, thus providing a cushion for the inside of the body. 

- Digestion would be seriously flawed.  Constipation, dry mucous and inadequate saliva result from not having enough water.  Difficulty swallowing and a noticeable difference in how food tastes could also happen.

- Bone joint movement could be hindered when there isn’t enough water in the body causing stiff joints.

Without water, our health suffers tremendously. But before you panic and think that you need to drink down a gallon of water, there is comfort in knowing that if you eat a balanced diet containing fruit, vegetables, grains and protein rich foods such as meat (or beans, for vegetarians), you may be getting at least the minimal amount the body needs to function.  Crisp vegetables like lettuce and celery contain at least 90% water. Protein rich meats may have as much as half to two thirds their weight in water.  And grains, though usually dry, may be composed of one-third water. Water finds it way into a lot of things we already eat, but remember it may not always remain in the liquid form. 

Now that you know what could happen if you don’t drink enough water, how is your daily water intake?  Is it right for your body’s optimal health?  Do you really need that soda, even though it contains water, or would you be better off with pure fruit juice or plain water?  Don’t fool yourself into thinking you’re getting what your body needs by making unwise choices. The water you take in from soda or by drinking too much caffeine-laden coffee is not as healthy as plain water.  Remember, your body has to digest all the sugar and other chemicals found in soda, causing it to work harder and lessening the potency of the water. Make better choices to be healthier. Drink up!

Posted under Health