Introduction

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Water, which is defined as a 'clear,' 'odorless,' 'inert' and 'tasteless' liquid, is vital to the body - we need access to clean wholesome water to survive.  In fact, the body's weight in water of an average person is approximately 60%. 

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Water in the body 

Water is contained in all the cells of the body - its organs and body tissue.  Water is also used to regulate the body's temperature and is central to most major bodily functions. 

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It also helps to keep the body 'moist' - for example, if you experience your eyes, nose and mouth becoming dry, this is an indication that you are below the optimum level of moisture required for your body. 

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Water also acts as a cushion protecting the spinal cord in the vital functions it performs, in the control and maintenance of the body's nervous and neurological system.  Water also acts as a lubricant for the body's joints. 

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It can therefore be seen from just these few examples, how vital and important water is. 

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Water Intake

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Our individual intake of water is dependent on a number of factors - climate is important - the nature of activity being performed is also important - also important, is the current state of the 'physical body' - namely, is the person healthy or suffering from some illness or other health problem. 

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The body is constantly losing water - through breathing, sweating and other bodily functions, like the digestive and excretory systems of the body.  As a consequence the 'rehydration' of the body through an intake of fluids and foods which contain water is extremely important.  An adequate supply of water ensures that 'poisonous wastes' are eliminated from the body through 'perspiration,' 'urination' and 'defecation.'  The kidneys and liver in particular are organs used to help flush out waste as do the intestines, part of the body's digestive system. 

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Water & Exercise

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Exercise is important for the body but vigorous exercise will often result in the excessive loss of water through sweat.  It is therefore important to increase your fluid intake to ensure the restoration of the body's natural hydration level.  Certain illnesses and diseases cause sweating such as fever, vomiting or diarrhea - again it is important to maintain an optimum level of water through regular intake.

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How much water do you need?

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The amount of water intake varies from individual to individual - an obvious guide is whether you are thirsty or not.  If you're uncertain about intake, you should look at your urine - this is a simple test.  If your urine is clear, you are properly hydrated - if it is dark, you are probably dehydrated.

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