10 reasons why you should drink more water

Water is our world's most precious resource - but it is also precious to you to ensure your body is functioning at its best. Did you know your body is made up of 70% water as it is the main component of your blood, cells and organs (the brain is 90% water!).

Got a headache? It's most likely you're dehydrated so instead of reaching for the pain relief (or another cup of coffee), guzzle a glass of water - hydrate, don't medicate!

How much should I be drinking?

It will always vary depending on your size, level of physical activity, how much you sweat and the weather, but a general starting point is that you need to drink at least 2.0 litres of water a day, and then count your other beverages on top of this (such as tea, coffee, milk, juice etc).

Top ten benefits for a healthy, hydrated body

1. INCREASED ENERGY & FOCUS
As your brain is predominately made of water, keeping it hydrated means that it can think, focus and concentrate more clearly. Symptoms of irritability, poor attention and headaches disappear when you know you've had enough water in the day. Be careful with the change of seasons as often indoor heating/cooling can dehydrate you without even noticing.

2. PROMOTES WEIGHT LOSS
Hydrated organs means better metabolism! Don't make your body work harder than it needs to and let it suffer. Water also helps to remove by-products of fat in your body, suppresses appetite and helps you to reduce your food intake due to the sensation of feeling full.

3. IMMUNE BOOSTER
There are certain vitamins that are water-soluble, meaning they can only be absorbed in the body with the aid of water. These include your vitamin C, K and B groups which all help with keeping your immune system working and transforming food into energy.

4. KEEPS YOUR SKIN GLOWING
It really doesn't matter how many skin products you wear, what matters is making sure your skin is moisturised from the inside. Staying hydrated means your skin is more likely to be nourished and less dry, reducing the risk of wrinkles, cracked skin or blemishes. 

5. MAINTAINS GUT REGULARITY
Water is key to keeping your bowels regular. Fluid + fibre go together like Vegemite + avocado so keeping up your litres will definitely help you avoid constipation and help you absorb more effectively.

6. FLUSHES OUT TOXINS
Water helps to excrete our waste from the blood via sweat and urination. Drinking enough keeps the kidney filters clear and reduces the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTI's).

7. NATURAL HEADACHE REMEDY
Before you reach for the painkillers every time a headache comes on, reach for a glass (or 3!) of water instead. Nine times out of 10 you will be dehydrated which is causing your headache compared to anything more sinister. And who wants to be popping medication if you don't need to?

8. REDUCES MUSCLE CRAMPS
Cramping from physical activity is usually a result of lost fluid and electrolytes from heavy sweating. Always aim to replenish your water first, and then suss out whether you need to top up with electrolytes later if cramping still persists.

9. MOOD IMPROVER
When your body is hydrated and running at optimal, it is a sure thing that you will be feeling your best - and who doesn't want that?

10. MONEY SAVER
The best thing of all: water is FREE - straight from your tap. So invest in a reusable water bottle and guzzle to your heart's content. For a bit of difference, add a slice of lemon, squeeze of lime, mint leaves, some berries or watermelon cubes to freshen up your glass!