Sunday, November 14, 2010

Water's Role In The Body & Hydration

Water's Role In The Body

Water helps nearly every part of the human body function efficiently. Considering that our bodies are almost two-thirds water, it is important to understand water's role in healthy lifestyles. The following are just some of the things water does in the body:

    * Brain is 75% water / Moderate dehydration can cause headaches and dizziness
    * Water is required for breathing
    * Regulates body temperature
    * Carries nutrients and oxygen to all cells in the body
    * Blood is 92% water
    * Moistens oxygen for breathing
    * Protects and cushions vital organs
    * Helps to convert food into energy
    * Helps body absorb nutrients
    * Removes waste
    * Bones are 22% water
    * Muscles are 75% water
    * Cushions joints

Hydration & Your Body

Most of us understand that staying hydrated is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. But what does water really do for our bodies? Water is essential for human life — we can survive only a few days without it.

Studies show that the vast majority of healthy people meet their daily hydration needs by letting thirst be their guide. Recognizing your thirst and your body's ongoing need for water is essential to the health and proper functioning of your body.

A 2004 report from the National Academy of Science (NAS) acknowledged the importance of water in staying hydrated and found that all beverages and foods contribute to hydration. The study said men are adequately hydrated by consuming 100 ounces of fluids per day, including drinking water and other beverages, and women at a level of just more than 72 ounces. That does, indeed, give support to - and goes beyond - the general guidance to consume eight, 8-ounce (64 ounces total) servings of water each day. For consumers who choose water as a beverage for hydration and refreshment, bottled water is an excellent choice because of its consistent safety, quality, good taste, and convenience.

According to the NAS, temporary underconsumption of water can occur due to heat exposure, high levels of physical activity, or decreased food and fluid intake. However, on a daily basis, fluid intake driven by thirst and the habitual consumption of beverages at meals is sufficient for the average person to maintain adequate hydration.

In addition, the NAS points out that prolonged physical activity and heat exposure will increase water losses and therefore may raise daily fluid needs. Very active individuals who are continually exposed to hot weather often have daily total water needs of six liters or more, according to several studies. For consumers who choose water as a beverage for hydration and refreshment, bottled water is an excellent choice because of its consistent safety, quality, good taste, and convenience. (Source: Dietary Intake Levels for Water, Salt and Potassium to Maintain Health and Reduce Chronic Disease Risk, National Academy of Science, 2004)

Hydration Calculator

Bottled water is an excellent choice for hydration for those who enjoy its refreshing taste and consistent high quality and safety, and for consumers wishing to avoid or moderate calories, caffeine, sugar, artificial colorings or other additives.

The amount of water you need to be adequately hydrated varies depending on your temperature, weight, level and duration of exercise, and many other factors. We offer this handy tool that will calculate a recommended water intake guideline that is tailored to your individual needs.

Remember, this is only an estimate. You will also receive a schedule of the best times of day to fulfill your daily hydration requirements.
 


(Article source : International Bottled Water Association Website)

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