Water is one of those things we rarely think about until we’re thirsty. Yet the more you learn about it, the more interesting it becomes.
So, next time you’re standing by the water cooler refilling your water bottle or water glass, here are seven fascinating facts you can present to your workmates.
- Water can taste a little different depending on the source
Ever noticed that water tastes slightly different when you’re away from home?
That’s because water naturally picks up minerals as it travels through rocks and soil. Areas with higher levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium can produce water with a subtly different flavour profile.
Better still, AquAid water is sourced from four carefully selected locations across the UK, so wherever your location, you can count on a consistently refreshing glass of water from your cooler.
- The weight you lose after exercise is mostly water
We’ve all felt pleased after seeing the scales move following a gym session. However, most of that immediate weight loss is actually water lost through sweat and breathing.
It’s one of the reasons rehydrating after exercise is so important.
- Water is the ultimate dissolver
Water dissolves more substances than any other naturally occurring liquid on Earth.
It’s this remarkable property that allows it to transport nutrients, minerals and oxygen around the body, helping everything function as it should.
- Cold water can taste more refreshing than warm water
Ever wondered why a chilled glass of water often seems more satisfying than one at room temperature?
Temperature can influence the way we experience flavour. Colder water suppresses certain tastes and odours, which can make it seem cleaner and more refreshing. It’s also one of the reasons many people prefer their drinking water nicely chilled.
Of course, whether you like your water icy cold or at room temperature is a matter of personal preference but there’s some science behind why that cold glass often hits the spot.
- Hot water can freeze faster than cold water
This one sounds made up but under certain conditions it can actually happen.
Known as the Mpemba Effect, the phenomenon has intrigued scientists for decades and remains one of water’s more surprising quirks.
- You can drink too much water
It sounds unlikely, but drinking excessive amounts of water in a very short period can dilute sodium levels in the blood.
Known as hyponatraemia, this condition is rare and is most commonly associated with endurance events where athletes consume large quantities of water over several hours.
- Water is stronger than it looks
Water molecules naturally stick together, creating what’s known as surface tension. It’s one of the reasons water can move through incredibly tiny blood vessels, helping transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
Not bad for a simple glass of water.
A water filled conclusion
I was familiar with some of these facts already but the last one still amazes me. The idea that water can travel through incredibly small vessels, helping carry oxygen and nutrients around the body, is extraordinary when you stop and think about it. It happens every second of every day, yet most of us only think about water when we’re thirsty.
Want to get on the right track to fitness and health? Know you’re not drinking enough water every day?
Contact AquAid. We’d be pleased to help with all your water cooler dispenser requirements – keeping you water fit and hydrated, rain or shine.
Sources
NHS – Water, drinks and hydration
British Nutrition Foundation – Hydration
Drinking Water Inspectorate (UK)
Royal Society of Chemistry – The Mpemba Effect
Institute of Food Technologists – How Temperature Affects Taste