7 reasons your body needs water

Staying hydrated is essential to health and wellbeing, yet many people still don't drink enough fluids each day. Here are seven reasons why it matters that you drink enough water.

A few facts about drinking water

• Adults are about 60% water; our blood is around 90% water.
• There is no fixed maximum daily amount of water you should drink.
• Water is essential for kidney function and many other bodily processes.
• When we're dehydrated, our skin becomes more sensitive.
• Drinking water instead of juice can help with weight management.

1. Cushions the joints

Cartilage in the joints and spinal discs is about 80% water. Long-term dehydration reduces the joints' ability to absorb shock and can lead to pain.

2. Regulates body temperature

Water stored in the middle layers of the skin surfaces as sweat when the body heats up. As it evaporates, it cools us down — especially important during exercise.

3. Delivers oxygen through the body

Blood is more than 90% water and carries oxygen throughout the body — essential for proper organ function.

4. Protects the kidneys

The kidneys regulate the body's fluids. Insufficient water intake can contribute to kidney stones and other problems.

5. Improves exercise performance

Research suggests dehydration reduces performance in activities lasting more than 30 minutes. Drinking more water can support endurance.

6. Helps with weight management

Water can support weight loss when it replaces sugary juices and sodas. A glass of water before a meal can help prevent overeating.

7. Protects the brain and sensitive tissues

Dehydration affects brain structure and function, as well as hormone and neurotransmitter production. Long-term dehydration can lead to issues with focus and clear thinking.

Recommended daily intake

How much water you need varies from person to person, depending on activity, perspiration and environment. General guidance is around 3.7 l for men and 2.7 l for women per day — roughly 80% from beverages and the rest from food.

With Cana Royal Water you don't just get hydration: you also get 340 mg/l of calcium, which builds bone and supports healthy teeth and gums. Cana is also notable for containing only 8 mg/l of sodium — suitable for a low-sodium diet.