The Role of Water in the Body
Water plays a significant role in the functioning of the body and is a common denominator for almost all processes that the body performs. From the basics of hydrating our cells to the complex elimination of toxins, water is a primary necessity.
Water is instrumental in many processes of our organs. Water is necessary for the elimination of substances through the kidneys. In the complex digestive cycle, water is necessary to ensure that the body properly utilizes the function of enzymatic and chemical reactions necessary for proper digestion and metabolism. The colon requires water for increased transit time and proper elimination. In addition to these important processes, water has other very valuable roles, including:
• It is part of the self healing process
• It is necessary for perspiration
• It is used internally to cool the body
• It is a primary component of circulation
• It creates a protective cushion for the joints
• It maintains body temperature
• It dissolves minerals necessary to be assimilated for proper use by the body
• It keeps the respiratory system moist and functioning
The Benefits of Water
Water. This clean, clear, nourishing element has vital functions in our body processes. It is not hard to imagine that it would also have a role in assisting the healing and prevention of many problems that occur in the body. From the simple standpoint that approximately 60% of the body's water is in the cells, it stands to reason that if there is a breakdown, lack of water may be a contributing factor. The benefits of water could fill a book. Review the following and see if any seem familiar:
• Prevents constipation
• Instrumental in the treatment of arthritis, obesity, arteriosclerosis, and kidney disorders
• Benefits bowel and bladder disorders
• May dissipate chronic headaches
• May help alleviate anxiety
• Instrumental in slowing down aging
• Helps to prevent food intolerances
• Keeps skin soft and supple
• Neutralizes acidity and heartburn
• Is an ally in relieving and preventing muscle pain
• Can reduce colitis pain
• Helps to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease
How much do we need?
The amount of water that we need is not an exact science. Factors such as how much protein is ingested and amount of exercise can increase and decrease the amount of water needed. Research has come up with some simple approximations based on the average amount ingested and eliminated.
Based on a normal 24 hours day of good health, our body loses approximately 2.8 quarts of water. This is easily broken down into body processes. We lose approximately 1.5 quarts from urine, 25.4 ounces through the skin, 13.5 ounces from breathing, and 5.1 ounces from elimination. The total approximate elimination is 2.8 quarts per day.
The body makes approximately 10 ounces from normal metabolism and we ingest approximately one quart from food. This leaves a deficit that is used to determine the minimum and maximum needs. Six 8 ounce servings represents the minimum that we need if we are eliminating properly and are ingesting water filled foods such as fruits and vegetables. Eight 8 ounces servings represent the maximum our body can use in a 24-hour period without increasing the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Here are a few variations to consider:
• Increase the amount in warm, humid weather, with heightened activity, during recovery from illness, with a high fat diet, with a high protein diet, with low calorie or restricted diets, with high fiber diets, and with high caffeine and alcohol consumption.
• Decrease the need with a high fruit and vegetable diet.
