We're probably all aware that drinking enough water every day is important to our overall health in the long term. Still, many of us often fall short of that often-cited eight-glasses-a-day goal. It's worth trying, however, because drinking more water has plenty of benefits, and can make a dramatic impact on how you feel—perhaps much sooner than you realize.
In fact, upping your H20 levels may be an easy solution for several of the more embarrassing and annoying issues we all deal with from time to time. Read on to find out which five hygiene problems you could be able to fix just by drinking more water.
READ THIS NEXT: What Happens If You Drink Out of the Same Water Glass for a Week, According to Doctors.
1 | Bad breath
iStockHave you tried brushing your teeth more, swishing with mouthwash, or doubling up on gum and mints as a way to treat your bad breath, all to no avail? If so, there's another possible solution you should try: drinking more water. This can help the mouth maintain enough moisture to get rid of odor-causing substances, according to James Walker, MD, a clinical doctor and contracted medical advisor for Welzo.
"Insufficient water intake can lead to dry mouth, reducing saliva production," Walker says. "Saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth, so a lack of it can contribute to bad breath."
2 | Gas
sebra / ShutterstockIf you're struggling to go number two, you will likely notice that you're also experiencing more smelly gas as well—which can certainly be an annoying and embarrassing problem. But simply grabbing another glass of water can help nip both these issues in the bud, says Ahmed ElBarkouki, a leader in health preventative measures and the CEO of Echelon Health.
"Hydration and fluids can help you to reduce the risk of developing constipation, which could increase gas and bloating," ElBarkouki explains. "Drinking four to six cups a day can help to keep you regular, as it helps to soften your stools—which in turn makes them much easier to pass."
3 | Body odor
iStockBody odor can be a major turn-off for the people around you. But drinking water can help you avoid smelling bad to others, according to Nancy Mitchell, RN, a registered nurse and a contributing writer at Assisted Living. As Mitchell explains, your sweat glands release a component called urea, and the bacteria living on your skin transforms this urea into ammonia—which can give off a rather pungent smell.
"But drinking sufficient water helps dilute your sweat, so there’s a lower concentration of urea present," she says. "Ultimately, it reduces the amount of urea available for bacteria to break down which, in turn, improves your body odor."
For more health advice delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
4 | Urinary tract infections
fongbeerredhot / ShutterstockIf you're noticing a foul smell when you pee, you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). While UTIs can be caused by various factors, "insufficient water intake may increase your risk of developing this hygiene problem," Walker warns. "Drinking an adequate amount of water helps dilute urine, flush out bacteria, and promote regular urination, reducing the risk of UTIs."
5 | Dry skin
iStockDehydration can also negatively impact your skin in unwanted ways, according to Linden Leadbetter, MD, a general physician and the head of Tokenomics at JennyCo. "When you stay hydrated, it means you're giving your body the right amount of water it needs," Leadbetter says. "This helps your skin to stay moisturized, which means it won't get too dry or flaky. Dry skin can be uncomfortable and make your skin look dull."
Best Life offers the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you're taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.
