How special it is to read a book by a medical doctor who has spent a large part of his life looking at chronic disease from a totally different perspective. Dr Batmanghelidj was born in Iran, educated in the UK and practiced in Tehran where, during the 1979 revolution was imprisoned awaiting trial. It was during this time that he discovered the healing powers of plain water by prescribing a single glass for a prisoner dying of acute stomach pain. The man recovered and Dr Batmanghelidj saved his own life by presenting a research paper on water to the presiding judge, who gave a shorter sentence so he could expand his study on the subject.
On his release in 1982 he moved to the USA where he set up the “Foundation for the Simple in Medicine” in order to communicate his discovery about the importance of water in the human body to maintain bodily functions and systems. He linked dehydration as a key factor in causing and/or worsening many chronic illnesses.
The role of water in the body of all living species, humans included has not changed since the earliest creation of life in water. As life emerged from the water and became more land oriented all species developed a refined body-water-preservation system and drought management system, which has become permanent with time. It is this system that is heavily dependent on water intake to ensure all bodily functions are running smoothly.
The human body is made up of 75% water and 25% solid matter. Brain tissue is 85% water. When cells in the body are starved of water they start to complain manifesting in different reactions. It is these reactions, according to Dr Batmanghelidj, that lead to chronic disease.
In our world today we are surrounded by choice. Why would water be interesting? We are so quick to make that “cuppa”, pour that glass of juice, wine or soda, mistakenly thinking that many are a good source of water. Of course, this is true, however while containing water they also contain dehydrating agents, thus removing water from the body’s water reserves and with time depleting the overall system.
Assuming Dr Batmanghelidj is right, giving children fizzy drinks and juices instead of a simple glass of water begins the dehydration process early in life. This habit creates an habitual process and an accustomed taste, automatically quashing the urge to drink water. How does this dehydration impact the developing mind and body? Does this have a link to the escalation in chronic diseases that we are seeing in the 21st century?
The need for water, as indicated by the thirst sensation in the mouth, is an indicator that the body requires water. Comparing this to your car, when needing petrol, the fuel gauge lights up or beeps when close to empty, or the arrow sits in the red “danger” zone. If not filling up soon, the engine simply stops. My point is the thirst sensation is already like your car the last cry for fuel!
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