You have probably heard a million times that water is super important. During the summer it’s even more important to drink water because you lose it way more than usual. Certainly we aren’t the only ones who think the heat is unbearable! Not drinking enough water this summer will seriously disadvantage you; heat stroke is a very real thing among other ailments. Here are seven reasons why you need to drink more water: 

1 Fights pain and cramps– Some of you may still be feeling the lingering joint pains that resulted from catching the chikungunya virus. Being dehydrated would intensify these pains. Drinking enough water will help to alleviate the joint pains and muscular cramps associated with Chik V, and anything else really.

2 Detox– Many people have tried to detoxify their bodies and have opted to use some expensive and downright dangerous methods. Little did they know they could use good ol’ water. Water flushes your system, cleanses your body and rids your tissues and organs of waste. 

3 Alternative to sugary drinks– Yes, that soda feels really good on that hot summer day. But did you know that while the soda feels refreshing and just what you need, it’s actually dehydrating you? On top of that, it’s linked to acne breakouts, gives you cavities and makes you tired. Switch out a bottle of soda with water instead and see the difference it will make.

4 Happiness– Believe it or not, drinking water has been proven to have a positive impact on your mood. Being dehydrated, even mildly dehydrated has a negative effect on your mood. Miserable? Drink some water. It might help.

5 Relieves headaches– Suffering from migraines or the occasional headache/ While you can always use a painkiller, research shows that a glass of water can help to relieve the pain.

6 Glo’ up– Drinking water keeps your skin moisturised and looking fresh. A moisturised, refreshed-looking face gives you that wonderful glow. As stated earlier, water also helps with fighting acne.

7 Energy– Drinking a lot of water this summer will boost your energy levels, which is an asset for those busy days at work or doing chores, and for those nights you want to rave.

So how much water should you drink? This depends on your weight and height, but it’s recommended that you don’t drink more than 3-3.5 liters a day. Hate the taste of water? You can try squeezing a lime or lemon in it, as well as eat foods rich in water such as watermelons. Carrying a water bottle with you at all times will encourage you to drink more, and if you need added motivation, there are actually apps you can download to help you along. Some of them are actually pretty fun, and are quite interactive as well. Happy drinking!