Why do you need to drink water: Why Drinking Water Is the Way to Go (for Kids)

28.01.202105.06.2021 by alexxlab

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15 benefits of drinking water and other water facts

Keeping hydrated is crucial for health and well-being, but many people do not consume enough fluids each day.

Around 60 percent of the body is made up of water, and around 71 percent of the planet’s surface is covered by water.

Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of water that means drinking enough each day is not at the top of many people’s lists of priorities.

Share on PinterestPossible benefits of drinking water range from keeping the kidneys healthy to losing weight.

To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water.

Here are some reasons our body needs water:

1. It lubricates the joints

Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability, leading to joint pain.

2. It forms saliva and mucus

Saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean. Consumed instead of sweetened beverages, it can also reduce tooth decay.

3. It delivers oxygen throughout the body

Blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body.

4. It boosts skin health and beauty

With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.

5. It cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues

Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.

6. It regulates body temperature

Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin comes to the skin’s surface as sweat when the body heats up. As it evaporates, it cools the body. In sport.

Some scientists have suggested that when there is too little water in the body, heat storage increases and the individual is less able to tolerate heat strain.

Having a lot of water in the body may reduce physical strain if heat stress occurs during exercise. However, more research is needed into these effects.

7, The digestive system depends on it

The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.

8. It flushes body waste

Water is needed in the processes of sweating and removal of urine and feces.

9. It helps maintain blood pressure

A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.

10. The airways need it

When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse.

11. It makes minerals and nutrients accessible

These dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach different parts of the body.

12. It prevents kidney damage

The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Insufficient water can lead to kidney stones and other problems.

13. It boosts performance during exercise

Some scientists have proposed that consuming more water might enhance performance during strenuous activity.

More research is needed to confirm this, but one review found that dehydration reduces performance in activities lasting longer than 30 minutes.

14. Weight loss

Water may also help with weight loss, if it is consumed instead of sweetened juices and sodas. “Preloading” with water before meals can help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.

15. It reduces the chance of a hangover

When partying, unsweetened soda water with ice and lemon alternated with alcoholic drinks can help prevent overconsumption of alcohol.

Water helps dissolve minerals and nutrients, making them more accessible to the body. It also helps remove waste products.

These two functions make water vital to the kidneys.

Every day, the kidneys filter around 120-150 quarts of fluid.

Of these, approximately 1-2 quarts are removed from the body in the form of urine, and the rest is recovered by the bloodstream.

Water is essential for the kidneys to function.

If the kidneys do not function properly, waste products and excess fluid can build up inside the body.

Untreated, chronic kidney disease can lead to kidney failure. The organs stop working, and either dialysis or kidney transplantation is required.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most common type of infection in the body. They account for around 8.1 million visits to health care providers in the U.S. every year.

If infections spread to the upper urinary tract, including the kidneys, permanent damage can result. Sudden, or acute, kidney infections can be life-threatening, particularly if septicemia occurs.

Drinking plenty of water is a simple way to reduce the risk of developing a UTI and to help treat an existing UTI.

Kidney stones interfere with how the kidneys work. When present, can complicate UTIs. These complicated UTIs tend to require longer periods of antibiotics to treat them, typically lasting 7 to 14 days.

The leading cause of kidney stones is a lack of water. People who report them often do not drink the recommended daily amount of water. Kidney stones may also increase the risk of chronic kidney disease.

In November 2014, the American College of Physicians issued new guidelines for people who have previously developed kidney stones. The guidelines state that increasing fluid intake to enable 2 liters of urination a day could decrease the risk of stone recurrence by at least half with no side effects.

Dehydration happens if we use and lose more water than the body takes in. It can lead to an imbalance in the body’s electrolytes. Electrolytes, such as potassium, phosphate, and sodium, help carry electrical signals between cells. The kidneys keep the levels of electrolytes in the body stable when they function properly.

When the kidneys are unable to maintain a balance in the levels of electrolytes, these electrical signals become mixed up. This can lead to seizures, involving involuntary muscle movements and loss of consciousness.

In severe cases, dehydration can lead to kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. Possible complications of chronic kidney failure include anemia, damage to the central nervous system, heart failure, and a compromised immune system.

Some of the water required by the body is obtained through foods with a high water content, such as soups, tomatoes, oranges, but most come through drinking water and other beverages.

During everyday functioning, water is lost by the body, and this needs to be replaced. We notice that we lose water through activities such as sweating and urination, but water is lost even when breathing.

Drinking water, whether from the tap or a bottle, is the best source of fluid for the body.

Milk and juices are also good sources of fluid, but beverages containing alcohol and caffeine, such as soft drinks, coffee, and beer, are not ideal because they often contain empty calories. Drinking water instead of soda can help with weight loss.

It was previously thought that caffeinated beverages had diuretic properties, meaning that they cause the body to release water. However, studies show that fluid loss because of caffeinated drinks is minimal.

The amount of water needed each day varies from person to person, depending on how active they are, how much they sweat, and so on.

There is no fixed amount of water that must be consumed daily, but there is general agreement on what a healthy fluid intake is.

According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the average recommended daily intake of water from both food and drink is:

This would be around 15. 5 cups for men and just over 11 cups for women. However, around 80 percent of this should come from drinks, including water, and the rest will be from food.

This means that:

Men should drink around 100 ounces, or 12.5 cups of fluid
Women should drink around 73 ounces, or just over 9 cups

Fresh fruits and vegetables and all non-alcoholic fluids count towards this recommendation.

Times when it is most important to drink plenty of water include:

when you have a fever
when the weather is hot
if you have diarrhea and vomiting
when you sweat a lot, for example, due to physical activity

Here are some facts about water:

Babies and children have a higher percentage of water than adults. When babies are born, they are about 78 percent water, but this falls to 65 percent by the age of 1 year.
Fatty tissue has less water than lean tissue.
Men have more water than women, as a percentage.

Do we drink enough water?

A study carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2013 analyzed data from the National Cancer Institute’s 2007 Food Attitudes and Behaviors Survey.

Out of a sample of 3,397 adults, the researchers found:

7 percent of adults reported no daily consumption of drinking water
36 percent of adults reported drinking 1-3 cups of drinking water a day
35 percent of adults reported drinking 4-7 cups of drinking water a day
22 percent of adults reported drinking 8 cups or more a day

People were more likely to drink less than 4 cups of drinking water daily if they consumed 1 cup or less of fruits or vegetables a day.

The study only measured the intake of drinking water. Fluid can be gained from other beverages, but water is best because it is calorie-free, caffeine-free, and alcohol-free.

Seven percent of respondents reported drinking no water at all daily, and those who drank a low volume of water also consumed less fruit and vegetables. This suggests that a certain number of people are risking their health by not getting enough fluid.

Even if the respondents reporting low levels of water intake were obtaining enough fluid, it is likely that they would be obtaining it from sources that could potentially compromise their health in other ways.

“The biologic requirement for water may be met with plain water or via foods and other beverages,” write the study authors. “Results from previous epidemiologic studies indicate that water intake may be inversely related to volume of calorically sweetened beverages and other fluid intake.”

15 benefits of drinking water and other water facts

Keeping hydrated is crucial for health and well-being, but many people do not consume enough fluids each day.

Around 60 percent of the body is made up of water, and around 71 percent of the planet’s surface is covered by water.

Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of water that means drinking enough each day is not at the top of many people’s lists of priorities.

Share on PinterestPossible benefits of drinking water range from keeping the kidneys healthy to losing weight.

To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water.

Here are some reasons our body needs water:

1. It lubricates the joints

Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability, leading to joint pain.

2. It forms saliva and mucus

3. It delivers oxygen throughout the body

Blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body.

4. It boosts skin health and beauty

With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.

5. It cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues

Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.

6. It regulates body temperature

Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin comes to the skin’s surface as sweat when the body heats up. As it evaporates, it cools the body. In sport.

Some scientists have suggested that when there is too little water in the body, heat storage increases and the individual is less able to tolerate heat strain.

Having a lot of water in the body may reduce physical strain if heat stress occurs during exercise. However, more research is needed into these effects.

7, The digestive system depends on it

The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers.

8. It flushes body waste

Water is needed in the processes of sweating and removal of urine and feces.

9. It helps maintain blood pressure

A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure.

10. The airways need it

When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse.

11. It makes minerals and nutrients accessible

These dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach different parts of the body.

12. It prevents kidney damage

The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Insufficient water can lead to kidney stones and other problems.

13. It boosts performance during exercise

Some scientists have proposed that consuming more water might enhance performance during strenuous activity.

More research is needed to confirm this, but one review found that dehydration reduces performance in activities lasting longer than 30 minutes.

14. Weight loss

Water may also help with weight loss, if it is consumed instead of sweetened juices and sodas. “Preloading” with water before meals can help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.

15. It reduces the chance of a hangover

When partying, unsweetened soda water with ice and lemon alternated with alcoholic drinks can help prevent overconsumption of alcohol.

Water helps dissolve minerals and nutrients, making them more accessible to the body. It also helps remove waste products.

These two functions make water vital to the kidneys.

Every day, the kidneys filter around 120-150 quarts of fluid.

Of these, approximately 1-2 quarts are removed from the body in the form of urine, and the rest is recovered by the bloodstream.

Water is essential for the kidneys to function.

If the kidneys do not function properly, waste products and excess fluid can build up inside the body.

Untreated, chronic kidney disease can lead to kidney failure. The organs stop working, and either dialysis or kidney transplantation is required.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most common type of infection in the body. They account for around 8.1 million visits to health care providers in the U.S. every year.

If infections spread to the upper urinary tract, including the kidneys, permanent damage can result. Sudden, or acute, kidney infections can be life-threatening, particularly if septicemia occurs.

Drinking plenty of water is a simple way to reduce the risk of developing a UTI and to help treat an existing UTI.

Some of the water required by the body is obtained through foods with a high water content, such as soups, tomatoes, oranges, but most come through drinking water and other beverages.

Drinking water, whether from the tap or a bottle, is the best source of fluid for the body.

The amount of water needed each day varies from person to person, depending on how active they are, how much they sweat, and so on.

There is no fixed amount of water that must be consumed daily, but there is general agreement on what a healthy fluid intake is.

According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the average recommended daily intake of water from both food and drink is:

This would be around 15.5 cups for men and just over 11 cups for women. However, around 80 percent of this should come from drinks, including water, and the rest will be from food.

This means that:

Men should drink around 100 ounces, or 12.5 cups of fluid
Women should drink around 73 ounces, or just over 9 cups

Fresh fruits and vegetables and all non-alcoholic fluids count towards this recommendation.

Times when it is most important to drink plenty of water include:

when you have a fever
when the weather is hot
if you have diarrhea and vomiting
when you sweat a lot, for example, due to physical activity

Here are some facts about water:

Babies and children have a higher percentage of water than adults. When babies are born, they are about 78 percent water, but this falls to 65 percent by the age of 1 year.
Fatty tissue has less water than lean tissue.
Men have more water than women, as a percentage.

Do we drink enough water?

A study carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2013 analyzed data from the National Cancer Institute’s 2007 Food Attitudes and Behaviors Survey.

Out of a sample of 3,397 adults, the researchers found:

7 percent of adults reported no daily consumption of drinking water
36 percent of adults reported drinking 1-3 cups of drinking water a day
35 percent of adults reported drinking 4-7 cups of drinking water a day
22 percent of adults reported drinking 8 cups or more a day

People were more likely to drink less than 4 cups of drinking water daily if they consumed 1 cup or less of fruits or vegetables a day.

The study only measured the intake of drinking water. Fluid can be gained from other beverages, but water is best because it is calorie-free, caffeine-free, and alcohol-free.

Water: How much should you drink every day?

Water is essential to good health. Are you getting enough? These guidelines can help you find out.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

How much water should you drink each day? It’s a simple question with no easy answer.

Studies have produced varying recommendations over the years. But your individual water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are and where you live.

No single formula fits everyone. But knowing more about your body’s need for fluids will help you estimate how much water to drink each day.

What are the health benefits of water?

Water is your body’s principal chemical component and makes up about 50&percnt; to 70&percnt; of your body weight. Your body depends on water to survive.

Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly. For example, water:

Gets rid of wastes through urination, perspiration and bowel movements
Keeps your temperature normal
Lubricates and cushions joints
Protects sensitive 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.

How much water do you need?

Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.

So how much fluid does the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate need? The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is:

About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men
About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women

These recommendations cover fluids from water, other beverages and food. About 20&percnt; of daily fluid intake usually comes from food and the rest from drinks.

What about the advice to drink 8 glasses a day?

You’ve probably heard the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day. That’s easy to remember, and it’s a reasonable goal.

Most healthy people can stay hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than eight glasses a day might be enough. But other people might need more.

You might need to modify your total fluid intake based on several factors:

Exercise. If you do any activity that makes you sweat, you need to drink extra water to cover the fluid loss. It’s important to drink water before, during and after a workout.
Environment. Hot or humid weather can make you sweat and requires additional fluid. Dehydration also can occur at high altitudes.
Overall health. Your body loses fluids when you have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea. Drink more water or follow a doctor’s recommendation to drink oral rehydration solutions. Other conditions that might require increased fluid intake include bladder infections and urinary tract stones.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, you may need additional fluids to stay hydrated.

Is water the only option for staying hydrated?

No. You don’t need to rely only on water to meet your fluid needs. What you eat also provides a significant portion. For example, many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and spinach, are almost 100&percnt; water by weight.

In addition, beverages such as milk, juice and herbal teas are composed mostly of water. Even caffeinated drinks — such as coffee and soda — can contribute to your daily water intake. But go easy on sugar-sweetened drinks. Regular soda, energy or sports drinks, and other sweet drinks usually contain a lot of added sugar, which may provide more calories than needed.

How do I know if I’m drinking enough?

Your fluid intake is probably adequate if:

You rarely feel thirsty
Your urine is colorless or light yellow

Your doctor or dietitian can help you determine the amount of water that’s right for you every day.

To prevent dehydration and make sure your body has the fluids it needs, make water your beverage of choice. It’s a good idea to drink a glass of water:

With each meal and between meals
Before, during and after exercise
If you feel thirsty

Should I worry about drinking too much water

Drinking too much water is rarely a problem for healthy, well-nourished adults. Athletes occasionally may drink too much water in an attempt to prevent dehydration during long or intense exercise. When you drink too much water, your kidneys can’t get rid of the excess water. The sodium content of your blood becomes diluted. This is called hyponatremia and it can be life-threatening.

Oct. 14, 2020

Show references

Office of Patient Education. The heat is on! Precautions for people with diabetes during the summer months. Mayo Clinic, 2018.
Auerbach PS, et al., eds. Dehydration and rehydration. In: Auerbach’s Wilderness Medicine. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 9, 2020.
Water & nutrition. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/nutrition/index.html. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
Dietary reference intakes for electrolytes and water. U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine. https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/dietary-reference-intakes-for-electrolytes-and-water. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
Franklin BA. Exercise prescription and guidance for adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
High-altitude travel & altitude illness. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/noninfectious-health-risks/high-altitude-travel-and-altitude-illness. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
Bardosono S, et al. Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Drinking for two. Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism. 2017; doi:10.1159/000462998.
Sterns RH. Maintenance and replacement fluid therapy in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
Gordon B. How much water do you need. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/healthy-eating/how-much-water-do-you-need. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
10 tips: Make better beverage choices. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.choosemyplate.gov/ten-tips-make-better-beverage-choices. Accessed Oct. 2, 2020.
Thomas DT, et al. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and athletic performance. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 2016; doi:10.1016/j.jand.2015.12.006.
Armstrong LE, et al. Water intake, water balance, and the elusive daily water requirement. Nutrients. 2018; doi:10.3390/nu10121928.

See more In-depth

Why Do We Need to Drink Water? | Healthy Eating

By M.T. Wroblewski Updated December 06, 2018

It may not be particularly warm outside, but you know when you need a drink of water – and fast. You’re excessively thirsty, perhaps even feeling a bit dizzy or lightheaded. Even if you haven’t been exercising vigorously, your muscles may feel weak, your back may hurt and your joints and muscles may feel stiff. You’re not imagining things; your body is simply signaling how dependent it is on water.

Water Is Your Body’s Fuel

About 60 percent of your body consists of water, which may sound like a lot until you realize how far that water must travel and the functions it must perform – every single day. All of the organs, tissues and cells in your body require water for proper functioning. There are 11 organ systems in your body that function interdependently. They are:

Cardiovascular system – heart and blood vessels.
Digestive system – esophagus, stomach, liver, large intestine, small intestine, anus and rectum.
Endocrine system – glands that regulate growth and metabolism. Integumentary system – hair, skin and nails. Lymphatic system – houses white blood cells vital to immunity to illness.* Muscular system – for movement and good posture.
Nervous system – brain, spinal cord and nerves.* Reproductive system
Respiratory system – supplies blood with oxygen. Skeletal system – all bones and joints. Bones store minerals, which water helps replenish. Urinary system – removes waste from the body (also known as the excretory system).

The “Big Three” Reasons

On a day-to-day basis, most people are unlikely to complain that their “skeletal system” or their “urinary system” is giving them problems. A lack of water is likely to show up in three ways that can be cast in more relatable terms (that once again underscore how the 11 organ systems work together). Water is vital to good health because it:

Your body needs water to maintain a healthy internal temperature of 98.6 degrees. You’re likely to need more water to maintain this temperature, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, if you:

Live in a warm climate* Are very active
Are sick with a fever* Suffer from a bout of diarrhea or vomiting

When your body is running low on water and the brain signals that you’re thirsty, by all means drink. Failing to do so can lead to dehydration, which in mild forms can lead to temporary disorientation and dizziness and in severe cases – kidney failure.

Water is a simple remedy for people who suffer from constipation, and another look at the body’s interrelated parts helps explain why. Every day, the kidneys rely on water to filter between 120 and 150 quarts of blood and 1 to 2 quarts of urine. But if the kidneys malfunction, excess fluid and waste can accumulate in the body. Water is the key to ensuring that the kidneys function as they should and wastes are flushed from the body.

Cartilage in the body – the cushioning agent of joints and discs of the spine – consists of about 80 percent water. So when cartilage becomes dried out, it follows that the joints are less able to shrug off bumps and knocks. Instead, they can feel stiff or bristle with pain. The solution? As the Arthritis Foundation states, “If there’s a magical elixir to drink, it’s water.”

How Much Water?

Just as your appetite for food fluctuates, so does your thirst for water, and staying tuned to your body’s signal for water is the best way to ensure you drink enough, especially since the amount of water you lose every day pivots on how much you perspire and excrete through urine and bowel movements.

The Mayo Clinic and Medical News Today recommend a daily intake of:

91 ounces (or 2.7 liters) of water for women* 125 ounces (or 3. 7 liters) of water for men

These recommendations can seem high, but remember that some of the water we get comes from our food. For example, certain vegetables (like zucchini) and fruit (like watermelon) teem with water, which can help you meet your recommended daily intake.

When you find yourself craving sugary drinks, remember the empty calories they contain. Water may be bland, but its attributes can’t be denied. As the Mayo Clinic says: “Water is your best bet because it’s calorie-free, inexpensive and readily available.”

How much water should you drink?

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration

How much water should you drink a day? You probably know that it’s important to drink plenty of fluids when the temperatures soar outside. But staying hydrated is a daily necessity, no matter what the thermometer says. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t getting enough to drink, especially older adults. “Older people don’t sense thirst as much as they did when they were younger. And that could be a problem if they’re on a medication that may cause fluid loss, such as a diuretic,” says Dr. Julian Seifter, a kidney specialist and associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Benefits of drinking water

Water keeps every system in the body functioning properly. The Harvard Medical School Special Health Report 6-Week Plan for Health Eating notes that water has many important jobs, such as:

carrying nutrients and oxygen to your cells
flushing bacteria from your bladder
aiding digestion
preventing constipation
normalizing blood pressure
stabilizing the heartbeat
cushioning joints
protecting organs and tissues
regulating body temperature
maintaining electrolyte (sodium) balance.

Giving your body enough fluids to carry out those tasks means that you’re staying hydrated.

If you don’t drink enough water each day, you risk becoming dehydrated. Warning signs of dehydration include weakness, low blood pressure, dizziness, confusion, or urine that’s dark in color.

So how much water should you drink? Most people need about four to six cups of water each day.

How much water should you drink a day?

The daily four-to-six cup rule is for generally healthy people. It’s possible to take in too much water if you have certain health conditions, such as thyroid disease or kidney, liver, or heart problems; or if you’re taking medications that make you retain water, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opiate pain medications, and some antidepressants.

How much water a day should you drink if you fit into that category? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Dr. Seifter says water intake must be individualized, and you should check with your doctor if you are not sure about the right amount for you.

But even a healthy person’s water needs will vary, especially if you’re losing water through sweat because you’re exercising, or because you’re outside on a hot day. If you’re wondering how much water you should drink on those occasions, speak with your doctor, but a general rule of thumb for healthy people is to drink two to three cups of water per hour, or more if you’re sweating heavily.

Tips for avoiding dehydration

It’s not just water that keeps you hydrated. All beverages containing water contribute toward your daily needs. And it’s a myth that caffeinated beverages or those containing alcohol are dehydrating because they make you urinate. They do, but over the course of the day, the water from these beverages still leads to a net positive contribution to total fluid consumption.

Of course, there are many reasons why water is still the better choice. Remember, sugary drinks can lead to weight gain and inflammation, which can increase your risk for developing diseases such as diabetes. Too much caffeine can give you the jitters or keep you from sleeping. And, alcohol intake should be limited to one drink per day for women, and 1-2 drinks per day for men.

To ward off dehydration, drink fluids gradually, throughout the day. An easy way to do this is to have a drink at each meal, as well as socially, or with medicine.

And know that you also get fluids from water-rich foods, such as salads, fruit, and applesauce.

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Hydration: Why It’s So Important

Your body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work properly. For example, your body uses water to maintain its temperature, remove waste, and lubricate your joints. Water is needed for overall good health.

Path to improved health

Look to water first

You should drink water every day. Most people have been told they should drink 6 to 8, 8-ounce glasses of water each day. That’s a reasonable goal. However, different people need different amounts of water to stay hydrated. Most healthy people can stay well hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than 8 glasses may be enough. Other people may need more than 8 glasses each day.

Other options

While plain water is best for staying hydrated, other drinks and foods can help, too. Fruit and vegetable juices, milk, and herbal teas add to the amount of water you get each day. Even caffeinated drinks (for example, coffee, tea, and soda) can contribute to your daily water intake. A moderate amount of caffeine (400 milligrams) isn’t harmful for most people. Here are the caffeine amounts found in popular drinks:

12 ounces of soda: 30 to 40 milligrams
8 ounces of green or black tea: 30 to 50 milligrams
8 ounces black coffee: 80 to 100 milligrams
8-ounce energy drink: 40 to 250 milligrams

However, it’s best to limit caffeinated drinks. Caffeine may cause some people to urinate more frequently or feel anxious or jittery. Plus, be mindful of what you drink. Some choices may add extra calories from sugar to your diet.

Water can also be found in fruits and vegetables (for example, watermelon, tomatoes, and lettuce), and in soup broths.

Sports drinks can be helpful if you’re planning on exercising at higher than normal levels for more than an hour. They contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that can increase your energy. They help your body absorb water. However, some sports drinks are high in calories from added sugar. They also may contain high levels of sodium (salt). Check the serving size on the label. One bottle usually contains more than one serving. Some sports drinks contain caffeine, too. Remember that a safe amount of caffeine to consume each day is no more than 400 milligrams.

Energy drinks are not the same as sports drinks. Energy drinks usually contain large amounts of caffeine. Also, they contain ingredients that overstimulate you (guarana, ginseng, or taurine). These are things your body doesn’t need. Most of these drinks are also high in added sugar. According to doctors, children and teens should not have energy drinks.

If staying hydrated is difficult for you, here are some tips that can help:

Keep a bottle of water with you during the day. To reduce your costs, carry a reusable water bottle and fill it with tap water.
If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to your drink.
Drink water before, during, and after a workout.
When you’re feeling hungry, drink water. Thirst is often confused with hunger. True hunger will not be satisfied by drinking water. Drinking water may also contribute to a healthy weight-loss plan. Some research suggests that drinking water can help you feel full.
If you have trouble remembering to drink water, drink on a schedule. For example, drink water when you wake up, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and when you go to bed. Or, drink a small glass of water at the beginning of each hour.
Drink water when you go to a restaurant. It will keep you hydrated, and it’s free.

Things to consider

If you don’t drink enough water, you may become dehydrated. This means your body doesn’t have enough fluid to operate properly.

Your urine can be an indicator if you’re dehydrated. If it’s colorless or light yellow, you’re well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you may be dehydrated.

There are other signs that can signal you may be dehydrated. They include:

Little or no urine.
Urine that is darker than usual.
Dry mouth.
Sleepiness or fatigue.
Extreme thirst.
Headache.
Confusion.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
No tears when crying.

Some people are at higher risk of dehydration, including people who exercise at a high intensity (or in hot weather) for too long, have certain medical conditions (kidney stones, bladder infection), are sick (fever, vomiting, diarrhea), are pregnant or breastfeeding, are trying to lose weight, or aren’t able to get enough fluids during the day. Older adults are also at higher risk. As you get older, your brain may not be able to sense dehydration. It doesn’t send signals for thirst.

Note that water makes up more than half of your body weight. You lose water each day when you go to the bathroom, sweat, and even when you breathe. You lose water even faster when the weather is really hot, when you’re physically active, or if you have a fever. Vomiting and diarrhea can also lead to rapid water loss. Be sure to actively drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.

Questions for your doctor

I don’t like water. What’s the next best thing to keep me hydrated?
Are there foods I can add to water to make it taste better?
What if I can’t consume as many fluids as doctors recommend?
What does it mean if I drink a lot of fluids but don’t urinate often?
How does drinking alcohol affect hydration?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Water & Nutrition

National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Dehydration

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Do We Really Need to Drink Water?

A look at how various beverages hydrate compared with water.

Our bodies are mainly made up of water—somewhere between 75 percent of our bodies when we are infants and 55 percent of our bodies in our golden years. And numerous studies show that drinking water has benefits: It helps us think better, it may help increase the body’s ability to burn fat and it may help increase the amount of calories some individuals burn. A 2016 French study found that those who drank more water had better-quality diets. This is all well and good, but do we really need to drink water?

“There is no need to drink water and, if water needs are low, there is no need to drink anything at all if a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and other foods with a high water content are chosen,” says Dr. Ron Maughan, a visiting professor at the University of St. Andrews School of Medicine in Scotland and a member of the science advisory board of the European Hydration Institute. However, the average American gets only about 20 percent of his or her water intake from food, according to a 2010 study in “Nutrition Reviews.”

So if our bodies don’t technically need water, does that mean any beverage will hydrate us?

Water: The gold standard?

When it comes to studying hydration, water is the control to which science compares everything else. And to understand how other beverages stack up to it, it’s important to understand how you absorb the water you drink.

Like most nutrients, water is absorbed in the small intestine. The small intestine absorbs a lot of water—roughly 1 to 2 liters per day plus another 6 to 7 liters that come from your body’s own secretions of saliva and from other organs, such as the stomach and liver. Eighty percent of these fluids have been absorbed by the small intestine—or have traveled through the cell membrane in a process known as osmosis—before they reach the large intestine.

The thing about water osmosis is that it is dependent on the amount of sodium in the body. Sodium and other electrolytes help the body hold on to water and maintain a fluid balance. Fluid balance is when the amount of electrolytes in the various body fluids, such as blood and urine, are within healthy ranges. Maintaining this balance of electrolytes helps your body’s blood chemistry, muscle action and other processes. Sodium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, phosphate and magnesium are all electrolytes.

“Drinking large volumes of plain water will increase body water content, but regulatory mechanisms mean that this is quickly excreted,” Maughan says. “Drinks with a high sugar concentration will be emptied from the stomach more slowly and will be more slowly absorbed, so they may stay in the body for longer,” Maughan continues. “Likewise, salt added to drinks or salty food added to drinks will help retain water in the body—the salt acts like a sponge, holding the water in the body. ” Knowing this, read on to learn about how various beverages hydrate the body.

Coconut water vs. water

If you listen to the hype surrounding coconut water, you may think that it is nature’s sports drink or even that it hydrates better than water. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, coconut water isn’t the perfect sports drink because it doesn’t replace the amount of calories, sodium and electrolytes that are lost through vigorous exercise that sports drinks do.

However, in a head-to-head comparison published in the “Journal of Physiological Anthropology and Applied Human Science,” coconut water provided comparable hydration to sports drinks and plain water in eight subjects who had worked out at 60 percent of their maximum effort in a warm environment until 2 percent of their body weight was lost through sweat. This small, preliminary study shows that coconut water can rehydrate you after vigorous exercise but no faster or better than plain water.

If sports drinks upset your stomach, one of the side findings of the study was that coconut water caused less nausea, less fullness and no stomach upset. So in this case, coconut water can help to rehydrate you and maintain some fluid balance.

Coffee and tea vs. water

It is a myth that caffeinated drinks, such as tea and coffee, cause dehydration. “It is unlikely that anyone gets dehydrated from drinking coffee or other caffeine‐containing beverages. Telling people not to drink tea, coffee or cola is likely to cause dehydration as people do not replace these with equal volumes of other drinks. There is some habituation to caffeine but not as much as might be thought,” Maughan says.

In fact, research that showed caffeine caused dehydration was done over short periods of time using high-strength caffeine pills at intakes of 200–500 milligrams of caffeine per dose—much higher than the amount in tea (40–50 milligrams), coffee (75–100 milligrams) or energy drinks (80–120 milligrams). “Caffeine does have a diuretic effect, but it takes a fairly large dose to get that effect—typically at least 250 to 300 milligrams, which is far more than you will get from the average cup of coffee, unless you drink a ‘grande’ size,” states Maughan. “Regular caffeine users will be less affected than those who never consume caffeine, but there is still an individual variability in response that is not well-understood.”

Ultimately, it’s the caffeine content that matters, as does the amount of water you consume at the same time, says Carrie Ruxton, a doctor and registered dietitian who has studied the effects of caffeine in tea on the body. “So an espresso (high caffeine, small volume) would be more likely to dehydrate than a large mug of tea with milk (low caffeine, large volume). However, caffeinated drinks are mostly water, which offsets the effect of caffeine.”

Juice vs. water

Maughan’s research, published in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” looked at the hydrating capabilities of 13 different beverages, including water. Orange juice, which is made up of 89 percent water and contains some potassium and carbohydrates, was found to be effective at maintaining fluid balance within the body over a longer period of time compared with water. In fact, his research found that “drinks containing the highest macronutrient and electrolyte contents were the most effective at maintaining fluid balance.”

Sports drinks vs. water

Almost any fluid is hydrating. “There are going be times when plain water is all you need,” says Laura Daray, senior scientist at the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, “for instance, throughout a typical day, for shorter workouts or for very low sweating types of conditions. Then, there are going to be instances where an electrolyte-containing water [or sports drink] may be a better fit for you.”

When you lose sodium through sweat, sometimes you need electrolytes to truly rehydrate and replenish the water your body has lost. Electrolytes are usually contained in sports drinks.

“Sodium is going to help with fluid retention, and this means it’s going help an individual hang on to more of the fluid that he or she is consuming, as opposed to losing it through urination. Sodium’s also going help drive thirst. This mean that it’s going help a person voluntarily drink more, and do a better job at replacing fluid losses, as opposed to when just drinking plain water,” Daray explains.

And as Maughan’s research found, sports drinks hydrate as well as water does—and help maintain fluid balance.

Sparkling water vs. water

When it comes to hydrating with water, whether your water has bubbles in it or not doesn’t really make a difference. “There may be small differences, but these are trivial,” says Maughan.

Ultimately, drinking any beverage will help keep you hydrated. Knowing how your body reacts to each one will help you decide the right hydrator for you.

Your Body on Dehydration
When your body doesn’t have enough water, it sends signals. Use these clues to help decode its hints:
Head—Headache, dizziness
Mouth—Thirst and bad breath
Heart—Sluggishness and heart beating harder or faster; dehydration makes your blood thicker, and it becomes harder for the heart to move blood through the vessels
Stomach—Sweets cravings; when dehydrated, your body has a difficult time creating glycogen
Bladder—Decrease in urination, dark-colored urine
Legs—Muscle cramps
Skin—Dry skin

Photo credits: studiovespa, Adobe Stock; 5ph, Adobe Stock; Brent Hofacker, Adobe Stock; robert, Adobe Stock; Kar Tr, Adobe Stock; caprasilana, Adobe Stock

90,000 Why and in what quantities do you need to drink water, and what will happen if you do not comply with the norm?

Water is a liquid that is present in any living organism. Everyone knows that a person can do without it for no more than 6 days. It is necessary for the normal functioning of almost all organs.

Why and in what quantities you need to drink water, and what will happen if you do not comply with the norm?

Why you need to drink water

There are many answers to the question, why drink water. Liquid is required for most physiological processes. It is required to remove toxins and other harmful substances from the body. Prevents premature aging of the skin and the appearance of wrinkles. When consumed in the recommended amounts, it reduces the risk of heart problems and heart attacks. Is one of the most important energy sources.

In addition, water

contributes to normal digestion;
prevents constipation;
participates in the process of “building” muscles;
is a natural thermostat.

Attention! Water has a beneficial effect on reproductive function in men, as it forms the basis of seminal fluid.

What happens if a person does not drink enough water

There are many people who do not control the amount of water they drink and consume less of it than is necessary. Among the most common consequences of such irresponsibility are:

deterioration of health;

90,020 headaches;

90,020 constipation;

90,020 problems with food digestion;

problems with the absorption of nutrients in the intestines.

How the body uses fluid

The kidneys of a healthy person pass through themselves from 150 to 170 liters of blood per day. They “produce” 1.5 liters of urine to remove filtered toxins and waste materials. The liquid leaves our body not only with urine: it is excreted in sweat, during breathing and along with feces.

Attention! To maintain the water balance in the norm, a person must drink at least 2 liters of water.

Since especially intense sweating is observed in hot weather, the amount of fluid consumed in the summer should be increased to .The same advice can be given to people forced to work in industrial premises where the air temperature is high.

How much water should athletes drink

Human muscles are 70–80% water. This fact alone is enough to understand that athletes need to monitor the amount of fluid they consume. Its deficiency will not only lead to a decrease in the results of training, but also cause drowsiness, lethargy, and decreased motivation.If the situation becomes chronic, then over time, convulsions and dizziness may appear. In addition, lack of water negatively affects the elasticity of the joints, and this is a direct path to the occurrence of injuries.

It is believed that athletes should drink:

About 500 ml of water a couple of hours before training;
200 ml every 10 minutes during classes in the hall;
250 ml post workout.

Attention! In order not to forget to drink the right amount of liquid, you should carry water in a bottle with you everywhere and occasionally drink it in small sips.

What are the dangers of excessive water consumption

Measure should be observed in everything. This also applies to drinking water. If the daily intake of fluid is exceeded, the salt balance may be disturbed, and as a result, the functioning of the kidneys. If the situation does not change, it will negatively affect brain activity.

Overhydration is fraught with sleep disturbance due to the neutralization of the hormone that slows down the kidneys at night and the rapid filling of the bladder. In addition, it causes excessive sweating. Observe the water consumption standards!
90,000 7 questions about why to drink water

Why does the body need water?

For life. On average, an adult body circulates about 5 liters of blood. Blood plasma is 92–95% water. Thanks to water, blood can perform its functions:

deliver nutrients to organ cells;
to bring oxygen from the lungs to tissues and return carbon dioxide to them;
to throw out waste substances from internal organs through the kidneys;
Provide homeostasis (constancy and balance of the internal environment): maintain temperature, water-salt balance, hormones and enzymes;
Protect the body: leukocytes and plasma proteins circulate in the blood, which are responsible for immunity.

If there is not enough water in the body, then the blood mass decreases, its viscosity increases. It is not easy for the heart to pump such blood. Premature wear of the heart muscle occurs, which leads to pathology up to myocardial infarction.

That is why, during active sports and high loads, the body needs more water.

Is it true that the lack of water hurts your head?

True. Even mild dehydration causes the brain to function worse.

More than 80 percent of the brain cells are water, and it is constantly washed by a fifth of all blood.Plus, the brain “bathes” in cerebrospinal fluid, which fills all the spaces in the spinal canal and cranium.

With water, oxygen and glucose are supplied to the brain, which are necessary for the generation of nerve impulses, that is, for nervous activity. Water removes metabolic products and toxins from the brain.

Therefore, if there is not enough fluid, dehydration (dehydration) of the brain occurs. And with it:

increased fatigue and absent-mindedness;
memory impairment;
slowing down the speed of mathematical calculations;
negative emotions.

Dehydration found in people with autism, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, schoolchildren who drink water during the school day improve their performance.

What happens if I don’t drink enough water?

Your health will worsen. In addition to the headache, other unpleasant symptoms of dehydration from the digestive and excretory systems will appear.

The work of the stomach and intestines is impossible without the intake of water. And there are several explanations for this.Water ensures normal food digestion and absorption of nutrients from the intestines. If there is little water in the body, there will be discomfort in the abdomen and constipation.

The kidneys filter 150-170 liters of blood per day to produce 1.5 liters of urine. This means that for the normal elimination of toxins and waste substances, you need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day, but preferably more.

With a lack of fluid, the filtration capacity of the kidneys deteriorates, they themselves can accumulate an excess of toxic substances.Against this background, various renal pathologies can occur. One of the main medical prescriptions for kidney pathology is the recommendation of an abundant drink to cleanse and restore function.

When do you need more water than usual?

When you want to have a baby. The basis of the seminal fluid is water. Thanks to her, the sperm goes in search of the egg, swimming through the woman’s reproductive pathways until conception occurs.

The new organism also spends all nine months in the aquatic environment.The amount of amniotic fluid increases with an increase in the size of the fetus, reaching 1,000 milliliters by birth. Waters support the fetus, protect it from infections, create conditions for growth and development.

During childbirth, water ensures the normal dilatation of the cervix and contributes to the safe movement of the baby along the birth canal.

I never drink much. Will it somehow affect me?

You will most likely look worse as you get older.

Avicenna also noticed that old age is dryness.In order for the skin to perform its protective function, it must maintain turgor (elasticity and firmness). Then she will be able to withstand the hot sun, drying wind or low air temperatures.

Healthy skin is 25% water and wrinkles when dehydrated. This means that to maintain her turgor, a daily intake of water is required. Better clean, slightly mineralized and free of gas.

To maintain the efficiency of the skin, it should receive at least 2 liters of clean water per day.

What other negative consequences does water shortage cause?

Even joints need water. If they are stiff, the person is deprived of freedom: he moves poorly and can hardly cope with matters. According to statistics, 30% of the population has joint diseases.

Joints are covered with cartilage. It is the slippery elastic cartilage that provides the mobility of the bone joints. Water makes up 80% of the cartilage. In addition, the joint capsule surrounding each joint contains joint fluid for lubricating cartilaginous surfaces.With a lack of water, they are destroyed, causing severe pain to a person.

What if I am not thirsty?

While doing business, we sometimes do not notice that we are thirsty, and even confuse thirst and hunger, reaching for snacks when we just need to take a sip of water.

The best way to prevent dehydration and all its unpleasant consequences is to put a bottle or a cup of clean, low-mineralized water on the table and take a sip every time your gaze falls on the water.

If you understand that you are thirsty, then eliminate the thirst in time.And if not, a sip of clean water has not stopped anyone yet.

* According to research conducted by Zenithinternational (specialist consultants to the food and drink industries worldwide) in 2016
** Eden is Eden artesian water.

≋ Why do you need to drink water? • We will tell you about the main important reasons to drink a lot of water

Water is a liquid that is necessary for our existence. Due to this importance, she gathered many questions around herself. What amount is required to drink per day, what time of day is it better to drink and what benefits does water bring to our body in general, does it have negative characteristics? We will provide answers to the most pressing questions.But first, let’s answer why you need to drink water.

The role of water in the human body

Even from the school curriculum, we remember the information about how many percent a person consists of water. It is worth noting that the amount of fluid fluctuates, depending on some factors: age, condition of internal organs, human health. As we all remember, the percentage of water in the human body is 60-80 percent. Thanks to water, the body is able to do its job correctly.Namely:

supply of nutrients to all organs;
oxygen supply to the lungs;
maintaining heart function;

90,020 release of processed substances;

ensuring the stability of the internal environment;
maintaining the temperature within the normal range;
support of the immune system capable of resisting disease.

The above information gives a clear answer to the question “why drink water” and demonstrates the importance of this activity.

Is it true that not drinking enough water can cause headaches?

Headache – drink some water! This is not just a statement. In fact, the lack of water leads to the fact that a person experiences headache attacks. Even with mild dehydration, the brain slows down its reactions. The thing is that brain cells, by their composition, include more than 80 percent of water. In addition, the brain is washed by a fifth of the body’s total blood. In addition to this, the cerebrospinal fluid also affects the brain cells.

Together with fluid, the brain receives important “products” – oxygen and glucose. It is these two components that directly affect the state of the nervous system. And the most important thing is that water removes toxins and other “harmful” substances from brain cells that should not stay in the brain.

If the body does not receive enough fluid, then headaches will be accompanied by the following unpleasant events:

fast fatigability;
poor memory performance;
slowing down the execution of actions;
increased nervousness.

If you can confidently say that I drink a lot of water, then a headache (at least from dehydration) is not a problem for you. Especially the use of water is recommended for those who are engaged in active mental work during the day to improve their well-being and increase activity.

I drink little water – what will happen? Is it dangerous or not?

Many people underestimate the importance and do not understand why it is necessary to drink a lot of water. Let’s give an illustrative example and answer the question of what will happen if there is insufficient fluid intake.In addition to the headache, as already described above, many other unpleasant symptoms will appear, which in the future (if the situation is not changed) can even lead to a dangerous illness. First of all, with insufficient drinking, the digestive and excretory systems suffer. The stomach and intestines will not function without fluid. It is water that contributes to the normal digestion of food, and also performs the process of absorption of nutrients from the intestines. Lack of water will soon lead to disorders such as constipation, a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen and other painful sensations.

Kidney function also suffers. With insufficient drinking, the filtration capacity is significantly impaired. As a result, various renal diseases occur. Having diagnosed such deterioration in the body, doctors prescribe an abundant daily drink of water. The minimum amount of fluid that a person must consume for normal kidney function is more than one and a half liters of water.

If I don’t drink much, will it show on my appearance?

Will be displayed and not for the better.Why drink a lot of water? To look good not only at a young age, but also in old age.

The famous medieval Persian scientist and physician Avicenna said that old age is dryness of the body and, first of all, of the skin. With sufficient water intake, the skin is able to effectively fulfill its protective abilities, namely, to maintain and maintain elasticity and firmness. It is very important to drink enough during a period when the skin is exposed to sunlight, wind or cold temperatures.With good drinking, these factors will not adversely affect the skin. Otherwise (if you drink a little water) the skin will be subject to various “defects”. In addition, it has been noted that people who drink insufficient amounts of liquids develop skin wrinkles earlier. This is because healthy skin contains 25 percent water. With a decrease in this indicator, as a result, wrinkles appear. To always have a healthy and beautiful skin, consume at least 2 liters of water per day.

Therefore, always adhere to the rule – I drink a lot of water, which means I will be healthy, beautiful and active.

Popular Myths About Drinking Water

On the Internet, on forums and from other information sources, there is a stream of information related to the use of water. Namely, in some cases and in certain circumstances, water is harmful. Let’s dispel the most basic ones.

If you drink a lot of water, there will be swelling.The appearance of edema in most cases is not provoked by the use of water. On the contrary, if a person with edema reduces the amount of fluid consumed, the condition will worsen even more.
The second common myth is that you need to drink a glass of water after eating. Many people live by this principle and think about the benefits of this event. In fact, gastroenterologists do not recommend drinking large quantities of water immediately after a meal, as this reduces the concentration of hydrochloric acid.It is better to drink some time after the meal.
The third popular myth is that if you drink water at night, there will be swelling and poor sleep. On the contrary, a glass of water in the evening promotes healthy and sound sleep, and also has a positive effect on the morning state.

What kind of water to drink

This question is no less relevant to the previous ones. Each person has a choice of what water to drink. It can be liquid from a tap, from a cooler, from a private well, filtered.Why is this question so important? The quality and composition of water directly affects human well-being and health. Therefore, in order for water to fulfill its purpose and be beneficial, it is necessary to give preference to a liquid that has passed filtration.

Filters for purifying drinking water are now a common household item. Given the poor water quality, this system is an urgent need. Among the varieties: main filters for domestic water, filter jugs, reverse osmosis systems and other types.Ecosoft filtering products are widespread in Ukraine, so there will be no problems with the purchase of the desired equipment. This is not an expensive undertaking at all, since the prices for Ecosoft filters are quite affordable. All you need to remember when operating such equipment is to change cartridge cassettes on time. By the way, the prices for Ecosoft cartridges are at a low price threshold.

Therefore, if you want to get full benefit from water, and you do not have a filtering device yet, it’s time to choose the appropriate type of systems and install.Prices for osmosis Ecosoft and other types have a favorable ratio to the quality of products. Installing any filter will allow you to always have clean water in the right quantities.

Conclusion

Summarizing all of the above, we can draw the following conclusion. Answering the question why it is necessary to drink water, the answer is unequivocal – to maintain the body in a healthy, active form, to prevent various diseases. This means that you need to drink water daily in the required quantities. You also need to take care of the quality of the water used.At home, install three-stage water purification filters or other types, and at work use a practical jug filter. Drinking water in the right quantities is the key to a good mood, long-term activity, healthy well-being and the absence of diseases.

90,000 Why thirsty? Causes of constant thirst for water

When a person is constantly thirsty after playing sports or while walking in the sun, this is normal. But what to do in cases where the feeling of thirst arises under other circumstances? Lack of fluid in the body is an important signal that should not be ignored.

Diabetes

Constant thirst may indicate the presence of diabetes.
If your blood sugar is high, your kidneys work faster to correct the problem of excess glucose. This increases the risk of dehydration.

In addition to thirst, the symptoms of diabetes are also:

• sharp weight loss;
• frequent and profuse urination;
• numbness of the limbs;
• high blood pressure;
• weakness, drowsiness, fatigue.

What is the way out? Visit your doctor and check your blood glucose levels.

Salt excess

The second reason why you are thirsty is an excess of salt in the body. Salt has the ability to “pull” fluid out of cells in the literal sense of the word.

There are several reasons for this: from the presence of a large amount of sodium to unhealthy diet (and human lifestyle). Constantly feeling thirsty means that the body is dehydrated by 1/3 of the norm.
Which exit? Review the diet, do not add salt to dishes, drink more water.

Anemia and xerostomia

Another reason why you want to drink a lot of water is anemia and xerostomia.
Anemia is a disease that causes a decrease in the number of red blood cells that carry oxygen. The more complex the manifestation of anemia, the more thirst the patient feels.

Xerostomia is commonly understood as severe dry mouth. It occurs when the salivary glands cannot secrete the required amount of fluid – a person is forced to drink a lot of water in order to eliminate an unpleasant symptom.

What is the way out? In both the first and second cases, it is better to see a doctor.

Taking medications

Dry mouth can cause medication of different spectrum of action:

• hypotensive;
• expectorant;
• antihistamines;
• diuretics;
• antibiotics.

Taking these and other drugs, you can easily answer the question of why you want to drink after water. They negatively affect the balance of the body (including in the form of side effects) and can provoke a lack of fluid.

What is the way out? Adjust treatment so that you do not feel thirsty after taking medication. If possible, start taking another remedy (analogue).

Other causes

Why do you want to drink even more after water? There are other reasons as well.

For example, the desire to drink water arises after eating certain foods: spicy and salty, smoked meats, conservation. Thirst can be caused by pregnancy, severe stress, hormonal disorders, diseases of the brain, kidneys and liver, thyroid problems, etc.d.

If the thirst is unreasonable, and the dose of water consumed per day exceeds 5 liters, seek help from the hospital – it is worthwhile to understand the problem.

90,000 How much water should you drink per day?

The normal functioning of the human body is possible only if certain conditions are followed, one of which is the observance of the correct drinking regime. It is very important to know exactly how you need to keep your body in optimal condition and how much water you need to drink per day to feel comfortable and healthy.Moisture intake is especially important for people who spend strength and energy on physical training or strive to lose weight.

At the same time, it is very important to understand that not any liquid is capable of performing the function of saturating cells with moisture. So, tea, coffee, juices, soups and other liquids cannot serve as an equivalent substitute for plain water. Only mineral water can partially replace ordinary water.

Why you need to drink water every day

Water is vital for humans and ranks second in importance after oxygen.This is explained very simply: the cells of the human body themselves contain liquid, so a lack of moisture can lead to problems with well-being. An adult who drinks the right amount of fluids per day feels great throughout the day.

If every day you drink less moisture than the physiological norm or drink only mineral water, juices, tea, then the body will begin to extract moisture from its own tissues and organs. It can cause various diseases:

– Pathologies of the thyroid gland and gastrointestinal tract;
– Disorders in the work of the cardiovascular system;
– Migraines;
– Joint pain;
– Disorders of the kidneys;
– Dry cough.

Lack of fluid can lead to diabetes, cancer and heart disease, and other negative consequences.

Main functions

So why does the whole human body need water and how much should a person drink per day?

The intake of moisture daily and in sufficient quantity regulates metabolism, helps to lose weight and, in general, has a beneficial effect on the activity of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the consumption of a physiologically grounded rate leads to the following positive consequences:

– Cleansing the body of toxins;
– Improving the condition of the skin, hair, nails;
– Decreased appetite;
– Normalization of digestion;
– Elimination of headaches;
– Improving immunity.

Moisture regulates body temperature, cleanses blood vessels, participates in the formation of joint lubrication, and also improves the penetration of minerals and trace elements that enter the body with food. It is important to remember that in hot weather and during exercise, the body loses more moisture, which means it needs constant replenishment.

External signs of moisture deficiency in the body

For an adult, it is easy to determine whether he adheres to the drinking regime or neglects it.A person who does not drink the required amount of glasses of liquid per day has the following symptoms:

– Dry skin;
– Early wrinkles;
– Brittle nails;
– Falling hair.

If a person is still striving to lose weight and actively strains in training, then all these manifestations increase significantly.

On the part of general health, the lack of moisture is manifested by chronic fatigue, irritability, bad mood, etc. Undoubtedly, all these symptoms can be caused by other factors, however, it is the misunderstanding of how many glasses of water you need to drink per day to maintain health, is the most common reason that causes them.

How much should you drink

The amount of moisture a person needs to drink per day is determined by several factors, including:

– Body weight, height, weight, age;
– The level of physical and mental stress;
– Ambient temperature.

About 2-2.5 liters of moisture leave the body of an adult per day. Fluid is lost during urination, during breathing, and sweat – especially during active physical training.It is very important to constantly saturate the body, i.e. consume as much of it as he loses. And if some of the moisture is formed using the biochemistry of the body, then the remaining about 60% of the person should drink on their own.

The norm for an adult’s body is determined based on all these factors. At the same time, according to the recommendations of the Ministry of Health, any person should drink at least 2 liters per day.

How to calculate the amount of water per day

The more accurately the rate of fluid required by the body per day is calculated, the more benefits a person will receive.The needs of each organism are individual. How to calculate how many glasses of liquid you need? For this, there are special formulas:

– For men – 35 ml * body weight;
– For women – 31 ml * body weight.

It turns out that men need to consume 0.035 liters of water per 1 kg of body weight, and women – 0.031 liters.

For example, in order to correctly calculate how much liquid a girl weighing 60 kg needs to drink per day, you need 60 * 0.031 = 1.86 liters. If physical activity is increased, then another 500 ml must be added to this volume.

When and how to drink correctly

There are several rules, observing which you can talk about the correct drinking regime:

– Drinking water is better than room temperature.
– The first glass must be drunk before breakfast.
– In the afternoon, the amount of fluid consumed must be reduced. During bedtime, its amount should generally be minimal.
– To lose weight faster if you feel hungry, you can drink clean warm water, and only then have a snack.
– Do not drink more than 400-500 ml of liquid at a time.
– It is important to consider fluid intake in the diet.
– It is best to consult with your trainer regarding fluid intake before, after and during your workout.
– It is not advisable to consume any drinks with food. This habit leads to stretching of the walls of the stomach. Better to wait about half an hour.
– Give up soda. Even mineral water is not the best way to lose weight or regain strength.
– Give preference to moisture that has not been subject to any processing, including thermal.

A person’s desire to drink persistently shows that the body requires fluid replenishment. You should not abuse it so as not to harm your own health. You need to drink as soon as you feel thirsty. It helps to restore water balance in the body, prevents various diseases and promotes the supply of amino acids to muscle cells.

90,000 How much water to drink with kidney stones?

Like all doctors, I pay a lot of attention to patient compliance, that is, people’s adherence to the prescribed treatment.It’s no secret that most people’s compliance with doctor’s recommendations leaves much to be desired. And when low adherence to one of the prescriptions becomes systemic in people who are completely different in psychotype, it becomes obvious that the problem lies precisely in the recommendations themselves. To increase adherence of people to treatment, technological means are actively used to facilitate the implementation of prescriptions. When we faced the problem of patients not measuring urine pH, we began to provide people with electronic pH meters.Having received a simple device in hand, the patient easily fulfills the doctor’s request to measure the urine pH level 4 times a day. The result of this innovation was an increase in compliance from 10% to 100%.

Well-known urologist in Russia Nariman Kazikhanovich Gadzhiev @urologeman has developed his own application for mobile phones called StoneMD. This application allows you to calculate the balance of food and water, which is so necessary for all people with urolithiasis. Consumption of water is the cornerstone of prevention of recurrent kidney stones, but it is extremely rare that a person’s drinking behavior can fundamentally change.Even after several bouts of renal colic, very few people measure their daily urine volume to bring it up to the recommended 2 liters per day. Technical tricks like comfortable sports water bottles, special measuring containers for collecting daily urine and reminders in a mobile phone do not work in this situation. For a long time I could not understand what was the reason for such a low compliance to this recommendation, until one of the patients explained to me that it was all about lack of motivation: people are not so sure that an increase in urine volume reduces the risk of urolithiasis.Therefore, the carousel presents the results of a study designed to convince all people of the importance of increasing the volume of urine.

Borghi L, Meschi T, Amato F, et al. Urinary volume, water and recurrences in idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis: a 5-year randomized prospective study // J Urol. – 1996. – Vol. 155. – P. 839-843.

Study Design:

90,019 90,020 199 patients with the first episode of urolithiasis

observation of patients for 5 years

initial average daily urine volume: 1.1 liter ± 250 ml

90,028 9,0002 Patients were divided into two groups 9,0003

In the first group, the same volume of urine was maintained
In the second group, the volume of urine was increased to 2.5 liters per day

90,028 90,095 Results of the study

The number of people who had a recurrence of urolithiasis

90 019 90 020 27 people out of 100 people with a urine volume of 1.1 liters

90 020 12 people out of 99 with a urine volume of 2.5 liters

Time from study start to registered relapse

25 ± 16 months for people with urine volume 1.1 liter
38 ± 12 months for people with a urine volume of 2.5 liters

It is also important that the control group of people without urolithiasis had a urine level higher than

Average urine volume in 199 patients with the first episode of renal colic: 1.1 ± 250 ml
Average urine volume in 100 people in the control group without urolithiasis: 1.4 ± 500 ml

Advice for patients

It is not the volume of fluid you drink that matters, but the volume of daily urine.There is no clear correlation between the amount of fluid you drink and your daily urine volume. Therefore, the diagnosis of urolithiasis should begin with measuring the volume of daily urine.
Many people with urolithiasis have low daily urine volumes. You can find out if you personally have a small daily urine volume only after collecting daily urine and measuring its volume.
A small volume of urine is just one of the causes of urolithiasis. A complete examination includes a biochemical blood test (creatinine, uric acid, ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, potassium) and a biochemical analysis of daily urine (at least for calcium, oxalate, phosphorus, uric acid, magnesium, sodium, citrate).

The eternal question and step-by-step algorithm

ETERNAL QUESTION. Doctor, I have urolithiasis. How much water should I drink per day? CORRECT ANSWER. So much so that the volume of urine is 2.5 liters or more.

STEP-BY-STEP ALGORITHM

Measure the daily urine volume.
As practice shows, an increase in the volume of liquid by 300 ml usually goes completely painless for a person’s well-being, therefore we buy 7 bottles of drinking water without gas at 0.33 liters and drink an additional 1 bottle every day.
A week later, we again measure the volume of daily urine.
If we are still far from the target, then next week we will buy 14 bottles of still drinking water at 0.33.
We repeat the measurement of daily urine in a week. And so on up to the target of 2.5 liters per day.

I am interested in information from people with urolithiasis. Measure your daily urine volume and write it in the comments.Let’s collect our own stats under this post.

90,000 8 SIGNALS WHAT YOU’RE DRINKING TOO LITTLE WATER

Having discovered any of the listed symptoms, you need to drink more water. But this should be done with moderation, otherwise the normal functioning of some body systems may be disrupted.

It is believed that approximately 70% of the human body is water.A person can live without it for no longer than a week.
This vital fluid participates in the metabolic and catabolic reactions of the body and is essential for the maintenance of good condition of the skin, hair and nails.
If the body does not receive enough water, health problems arise, and the normal functioning of various systems of the body and psyche is disrupted.
Thirst is an obvious sign of dehydration, but there are other signals that strongly indicate a lack of water in the body.

1. TOO RARE URINATION
A healthy person urinates 6-7 times a day. But, of course, this amount can vary depending on how much liquid is drunk.
If urination occurs only 2-3 times a day, drink more water and consult a doctor.
Inadequate water intake worsens kidney health and can lead to serious health problems.

2. PERMANENT HEADACHES
Persistent headaches can be caused by a lack of fluid in the body.
Water is essential for normal blood supply to organs and parts of the body. It also ensures the body’s normal response to inflammation.
Headache due to dehydration usually worse with movement.
This pain is often felt when moving quickly or when going up and down stairs.
For headaches caused by dehydration, it is recommended to drink plenty of water and the food should contain mineral salts.

3. FEELING OF DRY IN THE MOUTH
When the body lacks water, saliva is not produced in sufficient quantities and the mouth feels dry.
This can lead to a disturbance of the acid-base balance in the mouth, which increases the risk of infections in the oral cavity.
To prevent dry mouth, keep a bottle of water close at all times. For dry lips, moisturizing lipstick or balm can help.

4. URINE COLOR CHANGE
Urine discoloration should be perceived as an alarm, especially when accompanied by a strong odor.
When the body does not get enough water, the kidneys cannot cope with the elimination of toxins from the body and the color of urine changes dramatically.
If urine becomes too dark or cloudy, see a doctor. He’ll figure out if it’s chronic dehydration or kidney disease.
If dehydration is the problem, increase the amount of water you drink, but do so in moderation. After drinking several glasses of water at once, we can get serious health problems.

5. FATIGUE
Lack of water in the body contributes to the oxidation of body tissue cells and leads to chronic fatigue.
Many people try to relieve fatigue with coffee or an energy drink, but this overloads the liver, and eventually the fatigue only gets worse.
In order not to bring yourself to such a state, drink enough water. It is good to drink a glass of warm water in the morning.

6. MUSCLE CONTRIBUTIONS
Dehydration decreases the level of electrolytes in the body.
The body becomes less potassium, calcium and magnesium. Because of this, cramps and pains occur in the muscles.

7. CONSTRUCTIONS
Normal water content in the body is necessary for the “lubrication” of the intestine and its peristalsis. This prevents constipation.
If there is not enough fluid, the intestines do not work well, and feces accumulate in the rectum.
To avoid this, it is recommended to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. In addition, you need to eat fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.

8. DRY SKIN
For the skin to be sufficiently moisturized and soft, creams and lotions alone are not enough.
It is important to drink enough water. It promotes the normal production of sebum, prevents drying out of the skin and helps to eliminate toxins that accelerate aging.
Too dry skin just screams about dehydration of the body and that you need to drink more water.

In conclusion, let us say that the normal functioning of many body systems depends on water, and its insufficient consumption causes its unwanted reactions and diseases.

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Resources

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Conclusion

Study Design:

Advice for patients

The eternal question and step-by-step algorithm

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