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Health

Water – Elixir of Life

August 26, 2021

Humans can survive for weeks without solid food, but just a few days with no fluid intake. Our organic functions would simply not work without water. Drinking regularly and sufficiently keeps us healthy.

https://p.dw.com/p/3zWSS
BdTD | Junge trinkt Wasser aus einer Plastikflasche bei grosser Hitze
Image: imago images/Sven Simon
Symbolbild Wasserglas
Image: Colourbox/Haivoronska_Y

Why our bodies need water

Our entire metabolic system needs water to function. It serves as a coolant, transports nutrients and cleans our body by removing waste, for example via urination and sweat.

 

GLOD Uganda Wasserfilter
Image: DW

How water filters save lives

Every year, infectious diseases spread via contaminated water and poor sanitation kill more people than wars. And millions more fall ill due to dirty water. A project in Uganda provides help in the form of filters.

 

DW Good Shape | Stefan Kabisch zu Trinkmythen
Image: DW

Drinking sensibly

Drinking sufficient water can stimulate your metabolism and prevent excess weight gain – right? It’s also said to bolster your muscles and keep your skin wrinkle-free. We asked nutrition researcher Stefan Kabisch about the facts and the fiction.

 

25.06.2014 DW fit und gesund Niere
Image: Fotolia

Why phosphates damage our kidneys

The human body has its own form of sewage treatment plants: the kidneys. They produce urine, which is used to excrete certain waste products. Healthy kidneys are vital – but can be damaged by the wrong diet, e.g. containing excessive phosphorus.

 

DW Good Shape | Kneipp-Knieguss
Image: RBB

How a knee rinse helps your body

Sebastian Anton Kneipp would have turned 100 this year. He became famous for his hydrotherapy cures: affusions, baths and water treading. One simple application you can do at home is the knee rinse.

 

DW Sendung In Good Shape | Vivien Wettig
Image: DW

How the side plank works

Fitness instructor Vivien demonstrates home-workout exercises. This time: the side plank.

 

 

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