It’s time to kick the cola and indulge in some pure fresh water. Our body consists of about 65 per cent water and just cannot do without it. A mere 2 per cent drop in body water can trigger signs of dehydration, short term memory loss and difficulty in focusing.

Natural healer
Blood circulation is affected when dehydration sets in. The problem only gets worse as dehydration causes the brain to become less active and body to feel tired and fatigued. Water keeps the digestive system in order and flushes out waste products. Water is the natural way towards achieving glowing skin. Drinking acts as a body purifier, removing toxins and waste from your body. “Water forms the basis of wellbeing and cannot be substituted,” says Dr Dilnaz Saini.

Weight loss
Water is an important catalyst for weight loss. “Although most of us take it for granted, water may be the only true ‘magic potion’ for permanent weight loss,” says Dilnaz, “Water suppresses the appetite naturally and helps the body metabolise stored fat.” Studies have shown that a decrease in water intake will cause fat deposits to increase.

Fluid retention
Drinking enough water is the best treatment for fluid retention. Elucidates Dilnaz, “When the body gets less water, it perceives this as a threat to survival and begins to retain every drop.” Water is stored in extracellular spaces (outside the cell). This shows up as swollen feet, legs and hands. The best way to overcome the problem of water retention is to give your body what it needs — plenty of water.

Salt balance
Drinking a healthy amount of water helps the body get rid of unnecessary salts. As the water is forced through the kidneys it takes away excess sodium.

Cold is best
Water preferably should be drunk cold. It’s absorbed into the system more quickly than warm water. “Avoid iced water. Drinking chilled water will quench your thirst fast but the body might actually require a lot more water,” says Dilnaz.