Certain parts of our bodies need water more than others, especially the larger organs. But while you might assume that your heart or brain are colossal, your skin is actually the largest of them all. So, needless to say, it needs a sufficient water supply to grow and stay healthy. This is not surprising, seeing as H2O flushes out toxins and delivers key nutrients to cells.
While wrinkles might not magically disappear, giving you a youthful glow that will put Photoshop to shame, staying hydrated will benefit your skin in a number of ways.
What dehydration does to your skin
Health professionals state that when you are dehydrated, your organs start drawing water from your blood, making it thicker. In turn, your blood draws water from your skin cells. This causes your skin to look dry and develop dark shadows underneath your eyes. In the long term this can contribute to premature aging, as your skin loses elasticity when it’s dry – making it more prone to wrinkling.
Drinking more water will help you achieve clearer skin, because it cleanses and flushes out toxins and waste that contribute to skin problems, such as psoriasis and eczema. You may even appear healthier and more youthful as a result.
How to drink more water
If you are one of those people who dislike the taste or struggle to drink enough water, below are three ways to make the experience more pleasant and convenient.
- Carry a reusable water bottle with you in your car, handbag or at your desk and refill at a water cooler regularly. This will discourage you from caving in to the temptation of buying coffee and fizzy or sugary drinks on the go. Remember not to leave any plastic water bottles in the car – the heat causes dangerous chemicals to leach into the liquid.
- To make water more palatable, try adding watermelon chunks, mint or orange and lemon slices and let it soak through for a delicious flavourful drink. You can also add different kinds of berries or herbal teabags and honey if you have a sweet tooth. Plus the antioxidants in herbal teas are an added bonus.
- To add to your H2O intake for the day, snack on water-rich foods like grapefruit, cucumbers, melons, lettuce, tomatoes or celery.
Whether you want better looking skin or just improve your overall health, drinking enough water should be your first step. Take initiative and make a conscious decision to lead a healthier life – your body will thank you.
Christine Kleyn is a writer, editor and blogger. She writes for various clients on a range of topics including health and wellbeing, event and party planning and the environment. You can follow her on Twitter @christinekleyn.
