From a Healthy Heart to Improved Mood, Here's How Water Gives Your Body a Boost

Water is essential for life. Find out why it’s important and how much you really need.

By Avery Hurt
Feb 12, 2025 2:00 PMMar 21, 2025 4:53 PM
woman drinking out of water bottle
(Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

The human body is, on average, 60 percent water. So it makes sense that water is doing something important in there. And indeed, water is necessary for almost all physiological processes. 

In the past few years, research on hydration has shifted from studying the role of hydration in athletic performance to water’s role in overall health. And scientists are finding some interesting connections.

Water Is Essential to the Body

There is evidence that insufficient hydration can cause inflammation, stiffen arteries, and interfere with blood pressure control (causing blood pressure to swing wildly from too high to too low). According to a study published in 2022 in the European Heart Journal, staying well-hydrated during middle age can reduce the risk of heart problems later in life. 

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group