The human body needs water to survive and to operate optimally. Unfortunately it cannot store water, and as we lose water regularly via urination, sneezing, breathing and various other normal bodily functions, we need to drink water regularly.

Water forms the basis of blood, urine and perspiration, and digestive juices; it can be found in lean muscle, fat, and even in your bones. The body requires fresh supplies of water regularly in order to perform virtually every metabolic process.

How much water you personally need to drink every day will depend on various factors such as your gender, age, weight, metabolism, the weather, the food you eat, and your activity levels. The percentage of water in the body drops from childhood to adulthood, and is higher in men than in women. Adults lose around 3 litres of water per day and the elderly lose around 2 litres daily.

Water is required for most body functions, including:

  • Aiding digestion and preventing constipation;
  • Cushioning and lubricating your joints;
  • Eliminating toxins and metabolic by-products, excess electrolytes such as sodium and potassium and urea;
  • Ensuring the viscosity of your blood remains sufficiently liquid so that it flows easily through your blood vessels;
  • Keeping the mucous membranes in your lungs and mouth sufficiently moist;
  • Keeping your bladder free of bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of cystitis;
  • Keeping your skin moisturised to maintain plump texture and appearance;
  • Maintaining the health and integrity and of all the cells in your body;
  • Regulating your core body temperature through sweating;
  • Serving as a shock absorber for the spinal cord, the eyes, the brain, and in the amniotic sac surrounding the foetus in a pregnancy; and
  • Transporting oxygen and nutrients to your cells.

Make sure that you drink enough water daily to ensure that all the functions of water in the human body are met. The best way to do this is to get your drinking water from a water cooler that has a good water filter such as those sold by Living-Water, London’s premier water cooler company.