Julia Nicole Bright, entrepreneur, Contributor
Updated August, 30 2024
The brain is the most complex, mysterious, and demanding organ in the human body. It’s a powerful processor that continuously manages and stores tons of information and controls every organ, muscle, nervous system, and emotion. This supercomputer constitutes only 2% of total body mass and consists of approximately 86 billion neurons that communicate with each other through trillions of synapses, forming intricate networks that enable us to think, feel, make decisions, and even dream.
Interestingly, despite its incredible power, the brain operates on surprisingly little energy—about 20 watts, which is comparable to the energy consumption of a standard light bulb. Another fascinating fact is that the brain continues to function even while we sleep, actively processing information, strengthening memory, and clearing out toxins.
The most astonishing aspect of the brain is its neuroplasticity—the ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences, learning, or even injuries. This makes it a unique organ that never stops learning and constantly surprises us with its flexibility and limitless potential.
You might not realize it, but your brain takes up about 25% of all the fluids you consume daily just to function correctly. It genuinely needs a significant amount of water to function optimally, though the exact percentage can vary depending on factors like age, health status, and lifestyle.
The general recommendation for water intake for an adult is about 2-3 liters per day. These figures include not just pure water but also fluids found in food. However, it’s important to note that pure water is crucial in maintaining optimal bodily functions.
Room-temperature water is more accessible for the body to absorb. When you drink icy water, your body expends energy to warm it up to body temperature, which can slow down the hydration process. Cold water can cause blood vessels in the digestive tract to constrict, negatively affecting digestion. In contrast, warm or room-temperature water aids in better digestion.
10 Common Problems Caused by Chronic Dehydration
- Dehydration. Dehydration leads to fatigue, headaches, reduced concentration, and can cause serious health issues if ignored.
- Dry Skin. A lack of water results in dry, dull, and less elastic skin, which can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
- Constipation. Water is essential for proper bowel function. A lack of fluids causes stool to harden, leading to constipation.
- Kidney Stones. Inadequate water intake increases the risk of kidney stones, as concentrated urine contains more substances that contribute to stone formation.
- Dry Mouth. A lack of fluids can cause dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and dental issues.
- Lowered Immunity. Water plays a crucial role in maintaining the immune system. Dehydration can impair immune function and increase susceptibility to infections.
- Reduced Physical Endurance. A lack of water affects the body’s ability to endure physical exertion, leading to faster fatigue and weakness.
- Headaches and Migraines. Dehydration is a common cause of headaches. Adequate water intake can prevent them.
- Memory and Concentration Issues. The brain is 75% water, and even slight dehydration can negatively impact cognitive functions, leading to memory and concentration problems.
- Heart Problems. Dehydration can thicken the blood, increasing the workload on the heart and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Drinking Water: The Key to Health and Well-Being. Regular consumption of sufficient water is the key to good health. Here are a few interesting facts about the role of this universal and magical substance in the human body:
Our brain is 75% water. So, if you suddenly feel tired or unfocused, you might just need to drink some water! Think of your brain as a hydrated, active computer that starts to lag when it lacks water.
Many emotional and mental states are linked to a lack of water. A dehydrated brain can trigger irritability, anxiety, and even depression. So, if you’re feeling down, try drinking a glass of water before reaching for antidepressants.
Cold water speeds up metabolism. The secret to a slender figure might lie in proper hydration. Drink water before meals, and you’ll feel fuller and accelerate the calorie-burning process. This is no joke—water can indeed help you lose weight!
The body uses water to flush out toxins. Our kidneys are genuine filters that cleanse the blood, and water helps them do this. The more water you drink, the more efficiently your body eliminates unwanted “junk.”
The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it, too, needs water. Adequate internal hydration helps the skin stay firm, radiant, and youthful. No expensive creams can replace simple but effective hydration.
There’s a common myth that most people don’t drink enough water. In reality, thirst is a great mechanism that signals when it’s time to replenish our fluids. The key is to replenish with pure water, not store-bought drinks filled with harmful chemicals.
Regular water consumption supports the immune system. It helps flush out bacteria and viruses from the body and improves circulation, allowing cells to deliver oxygen and nutrients more quickly to where they are needed.
Water acts as a natural lubricant for joints. Without enough fluid, joints become less mobile and more susceptible to injury. So, drinking enough water is essential for joint health, too.
Our body uses water to regulate temperature. When overheated, we sweat, which cools the body. But remember, we lose water through sweat, which needs to be replenished.
Few people realize it, but dehydration is one reason for morning sluggishness. During sleep, we lose water through breathing and sweating. So, a glass of water in the morning is a great way to wake up and energize.
Water supports heart health. Adequate fluid intake helps reduce blood viscosity and improves circulation, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Water plays a crucial role in muscle function. It helps deliver necessary nutrients to muscles and remove waste products. A lack of water can lead to muscle cramps and pain.
Sleep quality can depend on hydration levels. Dehydration can cause nighttime cramps and trouble falling asleep. So, a glass of water before bed is not a bad idea.
We lose water even through breathing. This is especially noticeable in cold weather when you see steam coming out of your mouth. So, it’s important to remember to drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Dehydration can affect hormonal balance. For example, a lack of water can stimulate the release of cortisol—the stress hormone. So, to stay calm and balanced, drink water regularly.
Our eyes also need water. A lack of fluids can cause dry eyes and impair vision.
Water helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body. These minerals, such as sodium and potassium, are necessary for the normal functioning of muscles and nerves.
Several years ago, I gave up tea, coffee, and my beloved soft drinks and started drinking lots of pure water, even though I thought I’d never manage it. After all these years, I can honestly say that it was one of the best decisions of my life. Along with a healthy diet, I cleaned my liver, restored my skin’s condition, and significantly boosted my energy levels. Plus, I saved more money once I stopped spending on unhealthy drinks.
Today, water is my elixir of youth. Water is a real game-changer! It’s a unique and universally accessible substance that brings life energy, freshness, and mental clarity. So, let your day begin with a good glass of water and end the same way. Start loving water, lovely people, and your life will begin to transform before your eyes. You can trust me, I checked it.