Health Matters Monthly Column // July 2026
By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner
Water is essential to all life, so it’s not surprising that staying hydrated is important for good health. Did you know that more than half of our body weight is made up of water? In fact, almost two-thirds of our body is water. All cells and organs need sufficient water to work properly.
Here are 10 benefits of staying hydrated:
- Improved brain function
- Increased energy
- Temperature regulation
- Optimized digestion of food and nutrients
- Appetite suppression/weight management
- Decreased joint pain
- Heart health/electrolyte balance
- Kidney stone prevention
- Headache reduction
- Filtering of toxins through the kidneys and liver
How much water is enough? There is no easy or one-size-fits-all answer. Many factors affect your needs, such as age, height and weight, pregnancy status, activity level, and the weather. Most importantly, listen to your body! Watch for dry mouth, fatigue, headache, dark yellow urine, muscle cramps, and dry, tenting skin. If thirst is causing you to feel irritable, have an increased heart rate, or feel confused, seek medical attention right away.
Tips to stay hydrated:
- Drink when you feel thirsty.
- Keep a reusable water bottle with you to sip throughout the day.
- Add water-rich foods to your diet, like lettuce, fruit, cucumbers, and soup.
- Drink water with or before all meals.
- Drink water before, during, and after exercise.
- Drink extra water when you are sick.
Connect with Tina
Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, is a family nurse practitioner for NorthLakes Community Clinic in Augusta, Wisconsin, where everyone is served, regardless of their ability to pay, ensuring that all residents of northern Wisconsin have access to quality healthcare.
