Water is the source of life, and it is therefore essential for proper health, fitness, and wellbeing; it is necessary for digestion, absorption of nutrients, metabolism and immune system maintenance, and flushing toxins out of your body. As such, experts recommend that everyone drink at least six-to-eight eight-ounce glasses—or one 64-ounce water bottle if you are constantly on the go—of water per day. Here are some of the primary health benefits of drinking water:

1. Maintains electrolyte balance

The human body is, essentially, a solution of minerals and water; your body is composed of about 60-75% water. Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated to maintain optimal biochemical function. When the body loses water, through sweating, urination, or vomiting, without the water being sufficiently replaced, it can result in an imbalance of electrolytes—chemicals in the bodily fluids that help with numerous functions. This can cause mental fogginess, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, and cramps. It is therefore important to drink enough water to consistently replenish electrolytes and maintain electrolyte balance in the body.

2. Keeps blood pressure stable

Drinking enough water is also a natural way to stabilize your blood pressure. In fact, dehydration can increase blood pressure. When you don’t drink enough water every day, the blood becomes thicker and the concentration of salt in the blood increases. This causes the body to release the Vasopressin hormone, which makes the blood vessels constrict and increases blood pressure. As such, staying hydrated is a vital aspect of maintaining healthy blood pressure.

3. Prevents constipation

Water located in the intestines aids in the process of eliminating waste from the body by acting as a stool softener, helping to keep your stool soft and easy to pass. On the other hand, contaminants in water can cause diarrhea or constipation. Therefore, whether it’s still or sparkling water, use a water purifier to protect you from all types of these contaminants.

4. Improves brain function

Moderate dehydration is linked to reduced cognitive function. Dehydration has also been reported to be related to reduced memory capacity. This is thought to be because water regulates the concentration of sodium and potassium in the body. These minerals are crucial for maintaining your body’s nerve, muscle, and cell functions. As such, dehydration can cause issues with nerve functions, including cognitive function.

5. Flushes out harmful toxins

Water is essential for proper hydration and, as a result, has many benefits for body organs and tissues. Proper hydration can fight off ailments such as headaches, fatigue, low energy levels, flu-like symptoms, and more by flushing out toxins from the body.

6. Promotes healthy skin

Water is needed to produce collagen, a protein that gives your skin firmness and elasticity. Water also helps transport nutrients to your skin, keeps it moisturized, regulates pH balance, and improves blood circulation. Your skin should look more radiant and youthful if you drink water regularly.