Since we are practically made of 60% water, hydration is key and are recommended to drink 2 to 3 litres of water per day. But how does H2O help our gut especially for IBS individuals?

1. Water balances the osmotic balance in the gut

Providing enough water will keep a symbiotic relationship between the gut membrane and the friendly-gut bacteria. This will help in reducing the recurrence of distension in the abdominal area as a stronger relationship between these two will allow better toxic excretion and further help with reducing inflammation in the gut.

2. Water helps in de-bloating and constipation

Water helps de-bloating and puffiness. When you drink more water, the water the body is holding will come out.

Struggling with IBS-C? You might want to increase your water intake. The fibre, particularly insoluble fibre, adds bulk to your stool. Increasing water intake, it will make it easier for the stool to pass.

3. Water helps in regulating the nervous system

Water is the primary liquid that helps transfer nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. So if you drink an insufficient amount of water, your body will not be able to get the optimum amount of nutrients needed to function. Apart from that, enough oxygen and nutrients help in healing the stricture and inflammation happening in the gut.

4. Water helps in cooling our body

By providing enough plain water, your body will be able to reduce the pain from inflammation in the gut as it can help in transferring the temperature changes happening in the cell.

5. Water helps our brain and emotions!

Yep! Just the simple act of drinking 2 to 3 litres of water a day will help in maximising your brain and memory performance, fatigue and mood impairment.

Can’t seem to get in enough water? Here we have 3 tips that can help:

1. Drink water first thing in the morning

Start your day with a glass of water. Your body is dehydrated for the past 6 - 8 hours of sleep and replenishing right in the morning will also help kick start your digestion and get your metabolism revved up.

2. Add slices of fruits for flavour (and an expensive water look)

If you are tired of the plain taste, you should add slices of strawberries and cucumber to your jug or glass of water. Add mint as well (mint especially peppermint is known to aid digestion) for a more refreshing taste.

3. Set alarms

You might think this is silly but it actually helps in building this healthy habit. Set 5 alarms reminding you to drink 250ml of plain water. Adding this to the water you drink while having your meals, you can hit 2 litres easily!

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