Author: Manfred Kramer, June 08, 2011,
Article first published as Water â Essential Liquid of Life on Technorati.
It is something we take for granted, and it is still essential for life. Without it, life on this planet is not possible. It is simple in chemical composition, and yet extremely powerful in purpose: Water! It appears in over-abundance on this earth – and yet, it slowly becomes rare in its pure form, beneficial for all living things. Scientists say, that there is not one body of water on this planet that is not polluted. And yet, scientists and nutritionists maintain that clean water is absolutely essential to sustain life.
Here are some statistics about water:
- 97% of water on this earth is contained in the oceans
- 0.034% is contained in lakes, rivers and streams, sea-line and inland lakes
- 1,705% is contained in subsurface soil moisture, shallow groundwater and deep-lying groundwater
- Ice caps and glaciers have 2.15% of water
- Atmosphere is made of only 0.001% of our water
Scientists put the earth’s total water at about 326,000,000 mi3. They also say that the total amount of water on earth and its atmosphere is constant, and so water cannot be ‘used up’. It only changes its form (Liquid, ice, gas) and location. Even though the total amount is absolute, it can easily be contaminated and become abundant, or scarce, on different places on the earth. Hence, clean water distribution has become one of the major problems for mankind.
Even though, we, on a individual basis, can do little or nothing as to the availability of clean water, there are things we can do to use water to its fullest benefit – without ‘wasting’ it. One of the simplest things to do is just to inspect our faucets for leaks. Another tip would be to install water-saving shower heads, as well as reducing the water spent when flushing the toilet. A little research on the internet will provide an abundance of water saving suggestions. (Among many websites, here is one suggestion: http://bit.ly/ig6EbP)
One of the most important issues is to obtain clean water. Worldwide, according to one report, over 3.5 million people die each year from water related disease. Only 60% percent of the world’s population have access to clean water. Also, people that live in substandard areas, slums, pay inordinately more for clean water than people living in affluent areas of the same city.
Children are the most affected part of the population because they have not yet fully developed resistance to the water locally available. Hence, the numbers are staggering as to how many children die because of water related diseases, including diarrhea. In fact, according to one statistic, about 88% of cases of diarrhea worldwide are attributed to unclean water or insufficient sanitation, mostly in developing countries.
These numbers show how essential it is to obtain and preserve clean water for our consumption. According to Paul C. Bragg, we must drink clean water every day in order to maintain a healthy body. As an average, we should drink about 8 glasses of clean water every day. Mr. Bragg recommends distilled water, since it is free of pollutants as well as introduced toxins, such as sodium fluoride, erroneously meant to reduce tooth decay. However, one of the most essential benefits of pure water is to flush out toxins from our bodies. As Paul C. Bragg says: ‘Pure, distilled water is truly God’s greatest gift to us, a source of life and health’.
Drinking the right amount of water, based on individual activity, age, and climate, helps to protect us from all kinds of virus infections such as influenza, pneumonia and other infectious diseases. The common flu can be best combated with sufficient bed-rest and, yes: ample supply of pure water. Digestion is another factor that benefits greatly with the proper intake of water. Additionally, we should make it a habit to chew our food thoroughly to help our stomach to ‘pre-digest’ the food.
Another great benefit of proper intake of water is to support our brain functions. We have about 15 billion brain cells that are made up of about 75% water. Proper supply seems to stimulate healthy brain function. It will help improve thinking ability and memory.
We should remember, that water can come in several forms. In addition to pure water, we can support our water intake with fresh fruits and vegetables and their juices. We will feel better, look better and function better with the proper consumption of water. That is for sure. The choices are always ours. The basis of all healthy, energetic living, including all kinds of diets start with the proper intake of pure water.
These recommendations are for general purposes only. They are not meant to give counsel for healing sickness. However, experience has shown that following these general guidelines may improve your well being. People with special needs or ailments should always consult their doctor first.
Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
Good health to you and Stress-Free Living Ahoi,
Manfred Kramer
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