Why Water?

Water is the best beverage choice for many reasons. Our 

bodies rely on water to perform specific metabolic tasks on a

daily basis. 

Water regulates body temperature, keeping it close to 98.6

degrees. Drastic overheating can cause damage to the brain. 

We keep cool by emitting sweat from our pores, which is

mostly water.  If you are out in the heat and you stop

sweating, this may be a sign that you are dehydrated. 

Dehydration means your body does not have as much water

and fluids as it should.  Depending on how much of the

body’s fluid is lost or not replenished dehydration can be mild,

moderate, or severe.  When dehydration is severe, it is a life-

threatening emergency.  Dehydration is caused by losing too

much fluid, not drinking enough water or fluids or both.  You

may lose too much fluid from excessive sweating, excessive

urine output, fever, vomiting or diarrhea.  If you ever notice

you are dehydrated, drink water slowly to re-hydrate. 

Drinking water too quickly may lead to vomiting. 

Water is a major component of bodily fluids such as blood,

mucus, and saliva that help the body function properly.  Water

gives our body cells their shape and helps to keep them

stable.

Water helps transport oxygen and nutrients through the body.

Water aids in elimination of waste.

Water lubricates the joints.

Water keeps your skin looking and feeling young. 

We can’t store water in our bodies so we need to drink water

every day to remain healthy.  You would not last more than a

couple days without water.

Aim for 8 - 12 glasses of water each day, as well as intake

via foods such as fruits and vegetables.  Remember

everyone is different.  If you have a medical condition such as

congestive heart failure you may need to limit the amount of

fluid you take in.  If you have diabetes you may need to drink

more water.  Pregnant women require an increased water

intake.  If you exercise regularly, you may need more water. 

The environment you live in (high altitude or extremely hot

areas) may determine the amount of water you need to

consume.

It is also possible to over hydrate.  Check out the human

requirement calculator to see how much water you need.

http://www.csgnetwork.com/humanh2owater.html