Lately I have been trying very hard to avoid alcohol and to drink more water. It seems that during these stressful times it is easy to look for relief through distractions – television, social media, drinking; just to name a few.

Water may not be very sexy but it’s essential to our health and well-being and so I have chosen to learn a little bit more about water and I will share some things here with you.

Fast facts on drinking water

• Adult humans are 60 percent water, and our blood is 90 percent water.
• There is no universally agreed quantity of water that must be consumed daily.
• Water is essential for the kidneys and other bodily functions.
• When dehydrated, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and wrinkling.
• Drinking water instead of soda can help with weight loss.
• It cushions the brain, spinal cord and other sensitive tissues.
• It regulates body temperature and delivers oxygen throughout the body.
• Water flushes waste and prevents kidney damage.
• Boosts performance during exercise.
• Lubricates joints and produces saliva.

The types of water

1. Tap water – Tap water is the water that you get directly from your faucet, it may or may not be suited for drinking purposes.

2. Mineral water – Mineral water is the water that naturally contains minerals. It is obtained from underground sources, which makes it rich in minerals like calcium, manganese and magnesium. The essential minerals give it a reputation of healthy drinking water. The component of mineral water can vary from brand to brand, some may have more number of minerals while others may have lesser. The presence of the minerals also gives the water a characteristic salty taste.

3. Spring water – Spring water can be considered rainwater accumulated underground and tends to “leak” out at the surface as a spring, or puddle. Natural springs are not passed through a community water system and are yet considered suitable for drinking.

4.Well water – When it rains, water trickles down and travels through the inner crevices of the soil, beneath the ground to form underground lakes. This happens over a period of time. In rural areas, one of the primary sources of water is what is dug out from deep wells. Deep wells directly tap groundwater and bring it up.

5.Purified water – Purified water is the water which after deriving from its source has underwent purification treatment in a plant. The act of purifying entails removing contaminants and dissolved solids making it suitable to drinking and other purposes. You can either purchase it from the markets or install a water purifier at home and have pure water to consume. 

6. Distilled water – distilled water is one where the water has been subjected to a treatment that removes all its minerals and salt in a process of reverse osmosis and distillation. It is an absolutely pure form of water but it is not typically recommended for drinking. It can cause mineral deficiencies because it is devoid of all salts and most of the natural minerals in the water are gone as a result of this process. Drinking this water may cause a rapid sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium loss. 

7. Sparkling water – Sparkling water is a great alternative to still water. Many times in a restaurant you may be offered a choice of sparkling or still water. Sparkling water is the water that has undergone carbonation which makes your water fizzy just like your sodas.

Tips to Drink More Water

• Carry a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day.
• Freeze some freezer safe water bottles. Take one with you for ice-cold water all day long.
• Choose water over sugary drinks.
• Opt for water when eating out. You’ll save money and reduce calories.
• Serve water during meals.
• Add a wedge of lime or lemon to your water. This can help improve the taste and help you drink more water than you usually do.

Now go grab that water! Enjoy