Water
The forgotten nutrient
The functions of water:
Helps chemical reactions take place.
Carries nutrients to and waste products from cells through out the body.
Reduces friction between surfaces.
Controls body temp.
Symptoms
Headaches.
Nausea.
Dizziness.
Loss of consciousness.
Regulating body temperature
When your body gets hot the water that is in your body evaporates in perspiration to help cool your body.
Keeping fluids in balance
you can think of fluid balance at two levels. In the cells, there needs to be a balance between the water inside the cells and water outside the cells. Throughout the body, there needs to be a balance between water intake and water excretion.
The source of the body's water supply
Most people need 2 to 3 quarts of water per day to replace body fluids. Plain water is a pure source of this vital nutrient. However, milk, soft drinks, juices, broth, tea, and other liquids also have a higher water content.
Effects of water loss
A small percentage weight drop due to water loss will make you feel uncomfortable. When you lose 2% of body weight in fluids, you will become aware of the sensation of thirst. When dehydration occurs, the body takes steps to help conserve water. If fluids are not replaced, the damaging effects of dehydration will begin to take their roll.
Guidelines for fluid replacement.
To keep your body in top condition, drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water or liquids daily. When the weather is hot, you should make an effort to increase you r fluid intake. Pregnant women need extra liquids because they have an increased volume of body fluids to support their developing babies.