WATER ~ from Zen

Boosts physical and mental endurance.

Helps maintain a pleasant demeanor. Dehydrated adults and children tend to be irritable and/or lethargic.

Helps prevent muscle cramps in your legs, hands, and feet -- and achy stiffness in your joints.

Can prevent headaches. Are you prone to migraines, cluster headaches? Ask yourself how much water you drink in a day. If it isn't at least 48 ounces (preferably more), you might be dehydrated.

Some studies show hydration can decrease the risk of kidney stones and lower the risk of certain cancers by helping the body to flush out toxins.

Helps keep your digestive system working. Fluids soften the stools, making them easier to pass.

Helps prevent urinary tract infections by helping to flush away bacteria.

Helps keep pregnant women from being constipated -- and it can also help the body flush away excess fluid that can lead to bloating and edema (swelling).

Helps nursing women with milk production. If you are having a problem with milk supply, ask yourself how much water you're drinking.

Helps keep your eyes and skin moist and healthy. When the body is dehydrated, it looks for moisture from wherever it can find it -- including the eyes and skin.

Can help asthmatics breathe more efficiently, according to experts. Apparently, dehydration interferes with how well the lungs function (thereby increasing the likelihood of an asthma attack).