Water is the major constituent of our body. About 50 to 60% of total body weight is water. The ratio between total body water and body weight is standard for an individual. In an average adult male, 60% of the total body weight is water, whereas it is 50% in a young adult female. A lower percentage of body water in females is related to a higher percentage of body fat and a lower ratio of muscular tissue in comparison to males. A healthy person consumes about 2 liters of water per day, 70 to 80% as fluids and the remaining in solid food.
Drinking a lot of water – facts
Yes, drinking a lot of water is healthy, but you should remember that provided its source should be good and hygienic. ‘A lot’ should not be taken as drinking as much amount of water as you can. There are a lot of different reasons why we should consume water or fluids.
Fluid balance: Water is required by all body systems. Cellular metabolism depends on adequate water intake. These physiological functions include digestion and absorption, secretions of glands, cardiovascular function, brain function, and normal homeostasis of the body. Kidney function depends on urine formation. Severe lack of hydration may result in renal failure and anuria (lack of urine formation). Low water balance stimulates thirst and maintains water balance.
Weight loss companion: Water intake helps in weight loss. Consumption of meals results in early filling of the stomach resulting in satiety. This way, one can reduce calorie consumption. People on various diets are advised to take plenty of water. It’s a zero-calorie drink that is non-addicting. Foods with more water content like salads, fruits, and soups are more filling and helpful in dieting.
Muscle strength: Consumption of adequate water is very important during exercise. It helps in maintaining muscle metabolism. During exercise, a lot of acidic metabolites are produced which are washed away by the perfusion of blood. In people with dehydration, muscle cramps occur due to the accumulation of these metabolites. Also, during exercise water is lost in the form of sweating and should be replaced. Dehydration reduces performance in sports.
Beautiful shiny skin: Skin has an excellent blood supply as it is involved with body temperature regulation. When body temperature rises during exercise or fever, sweating helps in reducing the raised temperature by evaporation. Skin becomes dry, inelastic, and shriveled if one develops dehydration. Drinking plenty of water keeps the skin healthy, bright, and shiny.
System cleansing: Almost all metabolic waste products are excreted in the urine. A rich blood flow through the kidneys helps in the formation of urine. In people with a lack of hydration, urine becomes concentrated and dark. Water in adequate amounts is required to maintain good renal perfusion for the production of urine. A good flow of urine also prevents urinary tract infections and stone formation. Drinking plenty of water is also advised for the prevention of constipation.
Drinking plenty of water has a lot of positive effects on our bodies. It may be plain water or other fluids. One has to ensure that the source of water should be healthy and hygienic. In certain diseases like kidney failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and congestive heart failure, water intake is restricted. Physician consult should be taken in case of such illnesses.
