It’s free, available 24/7 and has MAJOR health benefits. So why aren’t we having more of it?

Feature image via iStock.

What if I told you there was a beverage with major health benefits that’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – and you don’t even have to leave the house to get it? And better than that, it’s free.

I know, I know, what is this magical and surprisingly affordable beverage? It’s water, duh. Pure, clean, life-giving H20.

I think Zoolander put it best when he said “moisture is the essence of wetness, and wetness is the essence of beauty”, but upping your daily water intake is not just good for your looks, it’s also important for your health and wellbeing.

The human body can last weeks without food, but without water? We wouldn’t even last a couple of days.

Related: Science has figured out the only way to make your fitness routine stick. And it doesn’t involve exercise.

In the Mamamia Sydney office, we’re lucky enough to have a Zip HydroTap, with instant chilled and boiling water.

The company believes in “the Zip effect” – that is, that staying hydrated is the key to better overall health and well being.

Here are just a few of the benefits you’ll get from drinking plenty of clean water every day. Your body will thank you for it. So drink up.

1. Mental alertness.

Feeling a little foggy? Maybe you haven’t had enough water today. Dehydration can cause numerous symptoms include problems with focus, memory, fatigue, headaches, sleep issues, anger – even depression. Boost your productivity by upping your number of glasses per day. It’s just good thinking.

2. Clearing toxins.

Your kidneys need plenty of water to filter the toxins out of your body. Staying hydrated will help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Phew. Nobody wants to let their kidneys down, do they?

 Related: 5 tips to help you have a healthy weekend.

3. Maintaining a healthy weight.

Seriously, tell that green smoothie to take a hike. Numerous studies have linked drinking plenty of water with maintaining a healthy weight. Why? It just keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

4. Your skin.

It’s those pesky toxins again. Certain toxins can actually cause the skin to inflame, causing clogged pores and acne. It won’t make you wrinkle-free, but water will help detoxify you and reduce your risk of pimples.

 Related: The new Healthy Eating Pyramid will probably make you feel a bit guilty.

5. Your hair.

Your skin is not the only thing that will look better when you drink plenty of water - your hair health will also improve. Seriously. So prepare for shinier, stronger, longer, healthier hair, water lovers.

6. Your heart.

Dehydration lowers the volume of your blood - so less blood means your heart will need to work harder to pump oxygen to your cells. Not drinking enough water will make simple activities like walking and exercising that much more difficult. You want to feel your best and most healthiest, so aim for six to eight glasses a day, minimum.

Related: 5 healthy, happy hacks to make this week amazing.

7. Your hangover.

Is your head pounding? Forget hair of the dog - drinking water when you’re hungover is the quickest way to get back to your best self.

When you’re busy it can be tough to remember to keep your fluid intake up – but it’s so important, and so easy. Water makes you sharper, stronger and healthier and we’re lucky enough that getting clean, fresh drinking water is just a matter of turning on a tap. So why not have a few extra glasses today and see how you feel? Go on. Your body and mind will be happier for it.

How do you remind yourself to drink more water?

Here are some inspiration points should you need an extra nudge...