Water, beyond quenching thirst

With the onset of scorching summer, combating the unbearable waves of heat becomes a pain.

Summer is that time of the year which brings along its own set of health issues which are common, yet difficult to deal with. Excessive heat exposure can lead to dehydration, which in turn can cause dangerous conditions like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, prickly heat and skin infection.

The simplest and the easiest way to stay away from these illnesses is to consume adequate amount of safe drinking water. However, most of us think water is just to quench thirst, but in reality, it is the most important element in our diet. Demineralised water or low-mineral content water is not considered ideal for drinking. According to WHO, there are important minerals and electrolytes in the diet, and potentially in water, that are essential for nutrition and wellbeing.

Minerals like calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, iodine, phosphorous, fluoride, chloride and many more are essential for human health. Although not commonly realised, drinking water provides most of these elements. Most of us remain unaware that often, using the wrong purification technology demineralises water, which results in several health problems and mineral deficiencies over a period of time.

Water, which is enriched with essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins, is extremely crucial and plays a very vital role in building a strong immune system. It infuses energy into the body, controls bacteria, and stimulates brain function as well.

Also, cold water stimulates the release of substances vital to immune function, such as cytokines that help in enhancing immunity. Opt for water purifiers which give healthy water with the benefit of instant cooling. These purifiers also eliminate the hassle of refilling bottles and putting them in the refrigerator.

(The author is chief scientific officer, Eureka Forbes Institute of Environment)