More than two-thirds of our body weight, or about 70%, is water. Also, water is essential for the proper functioning of metabolic reactions in the body . That is why water has become a basic human need. In fact, drinking clean water can lead to a healthier life.
Why should we drink water?
It is best to drink warm boiled water. Also, the amount of water needed per day should be drunk evenly throughout the day. Most people wait until they feel thirsty to drink water, but do not want to. Because Sri Lanka is a tropical country, the amount of water leaving the body is relatively small. Therefore, it is important to drink enough water a day to reduce the risk of various urinary tract infections. On average, an adult should drink about 1.5-2 liters of water per day, i.e. about 7-8 glasses of water, and the amount of fluid to drink varies according to body weight.
How to purify water?
It is important to use clean water for drinking. This is because water can be polluted in various ways. Water is polluted by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemicals such as industrial pollutants, agrochemicals, heavy metals, nitrates, and fluorides. The simplest way to purify water is to boil it well. This kills the germs and reduces the temporary hardness of the water. But this is not a good way to get rid of the chemicals that have been added to the water. Those living in areas where water is high in fluoride should use a water filter to purify the water, especially those manufactured by the Water Supply and Drainage Board or recommended by the Sri Lanka Dental Association.
Tea and coffee
Tea and coffee are very popular among Sri Lankans as stimulant drinks. Tea contains free radicals, which are highly active molecules that cause damage to cells in the body. Therefore, antioxidants protect the body's cells. '> Antioxidant flavonoids control blood cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. However, it is not advisable to drink tea for about two hours before and after meals as the tannins in the tea prevent the absorption of iron in the food. Frequent drinking of coffee is not recommended and can lead to high blood pressure and heart abnormalities.
Natural beverages
Natural beverages such as orange and coconut, as well as medicinal beverages such as Ranawara, Belimal, Iramusu, and green porridge are good for the body, providing the body with essential minerals as well as medicinal properties.
Artificial drinks
Many artificial soft drinks and artificial fruit juices on the market are high in sugar. Also, preservatives, preservatives, flavorings, colorings, and fragrances are used in the preparation of these artificial drinks. These synthetic chemicals can cause allergies, heartburn, asthma, fatigue, and cancer. Also, cola drinks can damage tooth enamel and increase tooth decay. In particular, the use of these flavored drinks by young children can lead to developmental problems in children by skipping main meals.
