We all know that we should drink more water, but it’s often easier said than done. There really are some pretty legit reasons for making sure that you’re well hydrated, so read on…

1. You won’t feel so hungry

When you’re trying to lose weight, the last thing you want to be is hungry all the time. So the next time you’re peckish, drink water first. Dehydration actually slows down your metabolism, while staying hydrated can serve as an appetite suppressant.

2. Help protect your body against cancer

This one’s a biggie. Research has shown that people who drink more water can reduce their risk of getting bladder cancer by 50%, and colon cancer by 45%. Staying hydrated may also reduce the risk of breast cancer – one of the biggest forms of cancer in South Africa.

3. You’ll feel happier

We know you can’t be Little Miss Sunshine every day, but it’s a fact that dehydration can affect your mood and make you grumpy and confused. So the next time you’re cranky, drink some water and you’ll instantly think clearer and feel happier.

4. Fewer aches and pains

Don’t worry, it’s probably not old age making your joints creaky, you might just be thirsty. Drinking water can reduce pain in your joints by keeping the cartilage soft and hydrated, while also preventing muscle cramps.

5. Ace your gym workouts

Being well hydrated before a workout will help you perform better. Since 75% of our muscle tissue consists of water, being dehydrated can make it shrivel, which results in possible muscle fatigue. So drink lots of water and energise your muscles for a killer workout.

6. Let go

Water helps our bodies get rid of waste by helping dissolve fats and soluble fibre, which prevents constipation and also reduces the burden on the kidneys and liver by helping to flush waste products.

7. Look younger

Forget expensive face creams. Hydrated skin not only looks plump and less wrinkly, regularly drinking water can also improve the colour and texture of your skin by keeping it regenerating and building new cells.

8. Feel better quicker

Some studies have shown that water may help with decongestion and that hydrating helps the body bounce back when you’re feeling under the weather. While this isn’t a cure-all, it certainly couldn’t hurt having a bit more fluids when you’re sick.

9. Do your heart a favour

There seems to be a link between the chances of dying from coronary heart disease and water intake. Research has shown that drinking more water means a lower risk of death from coronary heart disease. That risk of death rises significantly when intake of ‘high-energy fluids’ like soda and juice increases.

10. Put a jump back in your step

Move over coffee (which just dehydrates you further), water is just as good at fighting fatigue. One of the most common symptoms of dehydration is tiredness, so grab a big glass of water and get ready to go back to your perky self!