The body contains about 60 percent water. Water is a vital nutrient that the body needs to perform various life-staining tasks such as cellular function, waste removal, and temperature regulation. But body functions aren’t the only reason to stay hydrated.   

Benefits of Hydration 

Getting enough water is more than quenching your thirst. Keeping your body hydrated reduces your risk of dehydration symptoms and pain while helping to maintain essential body functions. 

 

  • Reduce your risk of dehydration. One of the most essential benefits of staying hydrated is reducing your risk of dehydration. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it’s taking in, causing headaches, muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue. 
  • Reduce joint pain and stiffness. Water keeps joint cartilage, which is essential for keeping bones from grinding on each other. It can also help reduce inflammation by flushing inflammatory toxins that may cause joint pain. 
  • Reduce overall body aches and pain. Dehydration can cause muscle tension and cramps, leading to unwanted body pain. 
  • Keep your bathroom schedule regular. Drinking water can help keep your bowel movements regular and reduce constipation.  
  • Keep your organs operating at full capacity. Nearly every organ, from your heart to your kidneys and brain, relies on water to function. 

Tips for Hydrating

If you’re having trouble getting enough daily water, consider these tips for keeping yourself hydrated. 

 

  • Carry a water bottle. Keep a bottle of water with you around the house and take it with you when you’re out and about. Having easily accessible water will make you more likely to drink it. 
  • Eat foods with high water content. You don’t have to hit your daily hydration goals with water alone. Get more water into your diet with foods such as watermelons and cucumbers. 
  • Limit physical activity on hot days. Dehydration is most likely to occur in warm weather, especially if you’re doing something physical that will cause you to sweat. 
  • Get enough electrolytes. When you sweat, your body loses electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, that help your body use and retain water. Make sure to replenish those electrolytes through foods or supplements.    

Working with Mocek Spine

Staying hydrated can help reduce body aches and joint pain, but depending on the source of your pain, it may not be enough to fully relieve your symptoms. If you’re living with chronic pain, it may be time to consider consulting a pain specialist like Mocek Spinal Clinic. 

 

Mocek Spinal Clinic, headed by Dr. Christopher K. Mocek, treats clients with chronic spine pain. We deliver medical excellence through compassionate care and strive to treat each person with respect and dignity. 

 

You can schedule an appointment online or by calling our office at 501.224.4001.