Why Does Drinking Water Help When Sick?

When we are sick, our body goes through a lot of changes. From a runny nose to a high fever, there are many symptoms that can make us feel uncomfortable and weak. It is essential to keep our body hydrated, especially when we are sick. Drinking water is one of the simplest and easiest ways to help combat sickness. But have you ever wondered why drinking water is so beneficial when we are sick? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why drinking water is vital for our overall health, especially when we are ill.

The Importance of Hydration

Before we dive into the role of water when we are sick, let’s understand why hydration is crucial for our body. Our body is made up of 60% water, which is involved in many vital bodily functions, such as regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients to cells, and removing waste products. When we get sick, our body’s demand for water increases as it tries to fight off the illness.

When we are dehydrated, our body’s ability to function effectively is compromised. This can lead to many negative side effects, such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and even confusion. Furthermore, being dehydrated can prolong our sickness and make us feel even worse.

How Water Helps When Sick

Now that we understand the importance of hydration let’s look at the specific ways in which water helps our body when we are sick.

1. Replaces Fluid Loss

When we are sick, our body loses a lot of fluids through sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, and even breathing. These fluids need to be replenished to avoid dehydration. Drinking water can help replace the lost fluids and keep our body hydrated.

2. Relieves Congestion

Drinking warm water can help loosen the mucus in our nose, throat, and chest, providing relief from congestion. It also helps soothe a sore throat and reduces coughing.

3. Helps with Digestion

When we are sick, our digestive system may not be functioning at its best. Drinking water helps keep the digestive system running smoothly and prevents constipation, a common side effect of many illnesses.

4. Aids in Nutrient Absorption

Water is essential for transporting nutrients to our cells. When we are sick, our body requires more nutrients to fight off the illness. Drinking water ensures that these nutrients are effectively delivered to our cells, helping us heal faster.

5. Reduces Fever

When we have a fever, our body’s temperature rises above normal to fight off the infection. Drinking water can help lower our body temperature and make us feel more comfortable.

How Much Water Should We Drink When Sick?

The general recommendation for daily water intake is about 8-ounce glasses of water per day. However, when we are sick, our body may require more water to stay hydrated. It is best to listen to our body and drink water whenever we feel thirsty. We can also increase our water intake by drinking herbal teas, warm water with lemon and honey, and soups.

Some Tips to Stay Hydrated When Sick

When we are sick, the last thing on our mind is staying hydrated. But it is essential to drink water regularly to help our body heal faster. Here are a few tips to stay hydrated when sick:

• Keep a bottle of water with you at all times, and take sips throughout the day.
• Try adding some flavor to your water with a slice of lemon, cucumber, or mint leaves.
• Drink herbal teas, clear broths, and soups to increase your water intake.
• Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
• Set a reminder on your phone to drink water at regular intervals.

In Conclusion

Staying hydrated is vital for our overall health, especially when we are sick. Drinking water helps replace lost fluids, soothes congestion, aids digestion, helps with nutrient absorption, and reduces fever. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated to help your body fight off the illness more effectively. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so make sure to drink enough water every day to stay healthy and hydrated.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.