Frome Valley Osteopaths

Becca highlighted to me recently how often the link between hydration and healing is underestimated and how often she is talking to patients about it in clinic…

Upto 60% of the adult human body is water, the brain and heart are 73% water, the lungs are 83% water. The skin contains 65% water, muscles and kidneys are 79% and even the bones are 31%. Whaaat!

Water serves as a lubricant, it makes up saliva and the synovial fluid around joints, it regulates body temperature through perspiration and helps to prevent and relieve constipation by moving food through the intestines.

You can see why it’s helpful right! If a muscle is 79% water, synovial fluid that surrounds and protects our joints is water and we aren’t taking in enough water …. it’s not a big leap to stiff, sore muscles and sore joints.

Water is particularly magic and important in healing from injury. Water flushes toxins out of the body, transports nutrients into the cells and as well as body temperature also regulates the PH balance of our bodies.

So simple steps for improved health should always include drinking enough water. The guidelines in the UK recommend 6-8 glasses or 1.2 litres of water a day.

Although I’m obsessed with the pure stuff, I know plenty of people aren’t. Squash is a great alternative as there usually isn’t too much added sugar. Fruit or herbal teas are also a good option.

There are so many different styles and colours of water bottles around at the moment, So … our top tip for getting and staying more hydrated would be to find one you like, that you wouldn’t mind having permanently attached to you and keep it topped up throughout the day.

Your body will thank you! Water is one of the cornerstones of all life, our own included 🙂