Archive for the ‘health’ Category
It will probably not surprise you that in order for we, humans, to survive, we must have air and water (in that order). And, I would guess that you, along with most other adults, haven’t tried to hold your breath to see how long you could go without breathing (or in order to see if mom or dad would give in and give you what you wanted) since you were a child. But, how often do you forgo the other necessity of life…drinking water? And, not just drinking water, but drinking enough water. Water is absolutely essential for the human body to function optimally. Every cell, tissue, organ and system in your body relies on the water you drink. For instance, did you know that your saliva, and the fluids surrounding your joints, are fundamentally water? So, in addition to generating dry mouth, dehydration often causes make your joints ache. Moreover, your temperature and metabolism, as well as your blood circulation, are regulated by water. And, there are many more wonderful reasons to drink sufficient water, like the improvement of nutrient absorption and toxin removal, as well as the reduction of heartburn, hypertension, exhaustion, headaches. Even back pain has been attributed to staying well-hydrated. As a Highland Chiropractor it is my practice to ask my patients with back pain and joint pain if they are drinking sufficient water each day, and I advise all of my patients to drink plenty of water on a daily basis.
Obviously, it’s not a subtle point I’m making. Drinking enough water is essential for good health in all the areas described above one day researchers may find even more. Now, none of us would be foolish enough to try to go through the day without breathing, yet unfortunately many of us go through our day either not drinking water at all or not drinking a sufficient amount. Every human body requires good hydration no matter what physical activity a person may engage in throughout the day. Athletes (who should know better!) are decidedly at risk when it comes to functional challenges caused by dehydration. “Physiologically, the core body temperature of an athlete could be higher than it should have been if they were hydrated. Their heart rate will be higher, and they’re going to perceive that they’re working harder than they actually are,” says Researcher, Susan Yeargin, assistant professor of athletic training in Indiana State’s College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services.
People often ask how much water is sufficient. Chiropractors like me, your Highland chiropractor, agree with most health care professionals in advising at least eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily for most of our patients. However, we advise even more for our patients who are athletes, or for patients who carry around excess weight or exercise or work where it’s hot. So, what is the key in determining if you’re drinking “enough” water? It’s simple! The color of your urine will let you know. If you’re well-hydrated, your urine will be a light, pale yellow!