Next to air, the most essential element your body needs is water. Yet, too little is said by medical experts about how vital water is to our overall health and appearance. Water, not coffee, not soft drinks, not fruit drinks and of course not alcoholic drinks. Just water. In grade school science class, you learn that the human body consists of between 55% and 75% water. Without it, we would die relatively quickly.

Water is essential to every cell in the human body. It helps to regulate vital functions such as blow flow, blood pressure, digestion, waste and toxin elimination. Water helps the skin and muscle retain elasticity. If you are trying to lose weight, water helps in metabolizing fat. Water helps to energize your body by making the transport of fatty acids and sugars more efficient.

Drinking sufficient quantity water can help to fight off fatigue, muscle pulls and water retention. Proper hydration will help the joints to maintain lubrication. In short, while not the fountain of youth, water is a terrific resource for fending off many of the effects of aging.

Experts recommend drinking between 6 and 8 cups of water daily. The ideal quantity depends on factors such as body weight, activity levels, ambient temperatures etc. A simple rule of thumb is to drink one ounce of water for each two pounds of body weight. Adjust your consumption as needed. The color of your urine can also be a clue to your hydration levels. The darker the color, the more dehydrated you may be.

If you are chronically dehydrated you may not sense thirst when you should. This condition will improve if you increase consumption to appropriate levels.

Athletes need to be certain that they balance out water consumption with electrolytes. Consumption of excessive quantities of water can result in serious dilution of electrolytes that can impact the heart's rhythm Recently, a woman died after a water drinking contest sponsored by a local radio station. She drank several gallons of water and suffered swelling of the brain.

Do not drink all six to eight cups at one time. Spread them out during the day. Don't count coffee as this has a diuretic effect and will cause water loss. Soft drinks and fruity drinks add lots of calories from sugar.

Don't force yourself to drink. Listen to your body.

If you suffer from kidney or adrenal problems or are being treated for high blood pressure, consult with your physician.