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The Doctor Who Prescribed Water – And Changed Lives
How often do we overlook the simplest remedy of all: water?
Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj didn’t. And what he discovered might just change the way you think about hydration forever.
Born in Iran, educated in the UK, and practising medicine in Tehran, Dr. Batmanghelidj’s life took a dramatic turn during the 1979 Iranian Revolution when he was imprisoned. Facing a grim sentence, he encountered a fellow prisoner doubled over in agony from stomach pain. With nothing else available, the doctor offered him a glass of plain water. The pain vanished. That moment became the spark for a groundbreaking discovery.
To shorten his sentence, Dr. Batmanghelidj presented a research paper to the judge — on water. It worked. He was released and later moved to the U.S., where he founded the Foundation for the Simple in Medicine and began spreading one powerful message: dehydration could be the hidden root of many chronic illnesses.
The Body's Built-In Drought System
All life began in water. As species moved onto land, they developed sophisticated systems to preserve internal hydration. The human body is no exception. In fact, we’re made of about 75% water — and our brains, a whopping 85%.
When we don’t drink enough, the body sends distress signals. Dr. Batmanghelidj believed these early signs of dehydration often get misdiagnosed — and if ignored, they can escalate into chronic disease.
Are We Mistaking Thirst for Taste?
We live in a world of endless drink choices — coffee, tea, juice, soda, wine. Sure, they contain water, but they also carry dehydrating substances like caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. Over time, these choices chip away at our hydration levels.
And kids? We start them young on juices and fizzy drinks, dulling their natural urge to drink water. Could this early habit be part of why we’re seeing chronic conditions skyrocket in modern life?
Your Body’s Fuel Gauge
Think of your thirst like the fuel light in your car — if it’s flashing, you’re already running low. But unlike a car, you can't just stall by the roadside. Dehydration affects your energy, your focus, your digestion, and even your mood.
So, how much should you actually be drinking?
Hydration Guidelines (and Smart Tips)
Most people need 2.7 to 3.7 litres of fluid daily — from water, other drinks, and water-rich foods. A good baseline? Aim for at least 1.5 litres of pure water each day — more if it’s hot or you’re active.
Here’s how to make it easier:
✅ Start your day with warm water + juice of ½ lemon — it hydrates and supports digestion.
✅ Use a measured flask or jug to track your intake.
✅ Keep water within reach — on your desk, in the car, beside your bed.
✅ Infuse it with cucumber, mint, or citrus for natural flavour.
✅ Load up on water-rich foods — cucumber, lettuce, melon, spinach, oranges, apples.
✅ Drink before meals, not during, to avoid diluting digestive enzymes.
✅ Got a headache? Try a glass of water first — you might be surprised.
✅ Drink filtered water if possible.
The Takeaway
Water isn’t just a drink. It’s a life source — a natural healer hidden in plain sight. Dr. Batmanghelidj’s legacy reminds us that sometimes, the most powerful medicine doesn’t come in a bottle.
It comes from the tap.
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Ever Thought of Giving a Gift of Health?
Looking for a gift for that special person in your life? A gift to support their health and wellbeing? What about a Green Key Health gift voucher?
We can issue gift vouchers for any sum you want for treatment online or in person. Contact by email rachel@greenkeypersonaldevelopment.com
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"Al Desko"- Does your Working Day Eat into your Lunch Break?
As with most things in the UK around working hours and conditions there is legislation that dictates the amount of hours worked in relation to the time allocated and legally allowed for a break. I would suggest that most companies are not only aware of this, but also follow the legislation, explaining to employees the amount of time they are entitled to for a break and in some situations, such as restaurants, and other service institutions, when that break can be taken. On the other hand there are jobs such as couriers who are paid by the number of deliveries and not by the hour who probably focus more on earning capacity, rather than taking a break to eat something. Despite all the legislation, lunch breaks are being swallowed up as we resign to eating lunch at our desk, opting to earn more, or to go home early. Not exactly “al fresco”, but “al desko” dining, or quickly popping out for a take-away of some kind, which is eaten on the hoof before returning to the desk.
Read more
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Miracle Weight Loss Cure or Another Overhyped Quick Fix?
In recent years, GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have been hailed as groundbreaking drugs in the fight against obesity. Originally developed and approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, these medications are now being marketed—and increasingly prescribed—for weight loss, with some even calling them a "miracle cure."But are they really the solution they’re touted to be?
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Spotlight on Adaptogenic Herbs for Managing Stressful Situations
Adaptogens are a large group of herbs that might be described as the key to health. The word “adaptogen” refers to the nonspecific endocrine-regulating, immune-modulating effects of certain plants that increase a person’s ability to maintain optimal health & balance in the face of physical & emotional stress. Who doesn’t have some stress in their life? Stress is not all negative, but exploring how stress affects the body we understand why adaptogens are so effective at sustaining health & wellbeing regardless of the challenges faced.
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Spotlight on Lemon Melissa: Nature’s Calm in a Cup
Lemon Melissa, also known as Lemon Balm and Melissa officinalis is a fragrant herb from the mint family, long celebrated for its calming, uplifting, and health-supportive qualities. At this time of year, Lemon balm is flourishing, delicious and beneficial to health. Key Benefits at a Glance:
Traditionally used to ease anxiety, restlessness, and nervous tension — perfect for winding down after a stressful day.
Lemon Melissa can help promote better sleep quality, especially when taken in the evening as a tea or supplement.
- Boosts Cognitive Function
Shown to support memory, focus, and mood — making it a great herb for mental clarity.
Gentle on the stomach, it helps soothe digestive discomfort and bloating.
Contains natural compounds that may help protect against viral infections and oxidative stress.
Well-tolerated by most people and suitable for long-term use.
How to Enjoy It:
- Brew as a herbal tea - just add boiled water and steep before drinking
- Take as a tincture or capsule
- Add fresh leaves to salads or water infusions
- Rub a fresh leaf between your fingers and then smell your fingers - notice how you feel calm and relaxed.
Note:
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on thyroid medication, consult a healthcare professional before use.
"There are some substances in which this quintessence is contained in greater quantities than others, and from which it may more easily be extracted. Such substances are especially the herb called Melissa, and the human blood.”
The Life and Doctrines of Paracelsus, Franz Hartmann (1891)
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"I am a 78 year old women. I have had IBS symptoms all my life and recently had mobility issues. After each treatment with Rachel and taking the supplements suggested I notice my mobility improved as well as now being able to come off antidepressants and statins. My mood is much better and I am much more like my happier self. I still see Rachel every 6 weeks for maintenance."
H. Bain
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A closing word
I'm excited to be speaking at the 15th Global Traditional Integrative Medicine conference on 9-10 July. This conference is organised by the Global Scientific Guild and is on line. I will be speaking for 30 minutes at 0930 est or 1330 gmt on 10 July.
It is an honour to be talking amongst a group of esteemed keynote speakers, including scientists, doctors, osteopaths..... representing practices, academies and universities from around the world.
The title of my presentation is "Wellbeing and the Role of Plant Medicines in Healing."Many of your have experienced the power of plants in your own healing journey. Hope you will join.
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