Importance of Water in the Body

Hydration anyone?  How many people actually drink ALL of the water they are suppose to drink?  Why would you when we have all of the artificial liquid joy we can consume, right?  Let's take a closer look at which bodily functions actually use water to benefit yours truly (yourself!).

Nearly all of the body's organs rely on the consumption of water.  Water is your body's principal chemical component and makes up about 60 percent of your body weight.  Every system in your body depends on water.  For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ears, nose and throat tissues.

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions.  Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.

So how much fluid (i.e., plain ol' water) does the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate need?  The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day.  The AI for women is 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) of total beverages a day.

For active exercising adults, a generic formula of body weight x .66= oz.  This should help you gather an idea of where you should be. 

Oh, and by the way...if you don’t have enough water in your diet, your liver will not metabolize fat as efficiently because your liver is taking on some of the functioning of the kidneys.  So if you don’t drink enough water, you will not metabolize fat as efficiently.  Think about it!!!