What Happens To Your Body When You Drink A Gallon Of Water A Day

You may have noticed huge water bottles going viral as people show off their hydration game. According to dietitian Valerie Agyeman, R.D., everyone has their own fluid needs, but upping hydration has its advantages. These are the benefits of drinking a gallon of water a day.

It Helps With Digestion

According to Dr. Elizabeth Barchi, M.D., who specializes in Sports Medicine at NYU, drinking water with meals can help food dissolve in the stomach. And if you’re constipated, Agyeman says drinking a lot of water can help with digestive flow.

It Boosts Physical Performance

Want to slay your HIIT workout? Barchi says staying hydrated during exercise helps “maintain blood volume and increase the amount of oxygen delivered to the muscles.” So be sure to hit up your gallon-sized bottle before you start sweating.

It Helps You Feel Fuller Longer

Drinking a lot of water each day may make you feel more full after meals, says Agyeman. If you spread out your water intake throughout the day, a small study shows you can feel more satisfied after breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

It Improves Kidney Function

Lauren Harris-Pincus, M.S., R.D.N., says you need to be well-hydrated in order for your kidneys to work properly. Studies also show that more fluid intake helps kidneys excrete more sodium and toxins, which results in a better health overall.

It Makes You Move More

It’s important to take breaks from your desk. According to Barchi, drinking a gallon of water throughout the day will increase your trips to the bathroom. “That means you get the blood flowing before sitting back down to your computer,” she says.

It Increases Energy Levels

If you’re not drinking enough water, Agyeman says you may feel more fatigued and sluggish. By drinking a gallon of water throughout the day, you can hydrate yourself for more energy and avoid the groggy effects of dehydration.

It Can Reduce Headaches

If you’ve ever drunk a very small amount of water in one day, odds are you’ve felt that pesky dehydration headache. Agyeman recommends drinking lots of water to combat them — especially if you’re prone to getting headaches in general.

It May Have Skin Benefits

Dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, M.D., says some studies show drinking half a gallon of water daily improves skin thickness. That said, he notes there isn't enough research to prove a direct beauty benefit, so be sure to continue moisturizing.