Most of the human body is water, an average of around 60%. However, the percentage may vary from person to person from 45%-75%. It means water is essential for the human body and its functions, such as temperature regulation, waste removal, and cellular function. People can maintain this water balance by consuming lots of fluid throughout the day. Humans drink more water in hot weather and while performing activities or exercising. Studies show a female body has a lower percentage of water than a male one because women are more likely to have a higher fat percentage.
Do you know the brain and kidneys consist of the maximum percentage of water, 80-85%, followed by the heart, lungs, muscles, liver, skin, blood, bones, and teeth? Regardless of the percentage, every body part needs water to function correctly. Remember, it is an essential nutrient in the human body and helps protect the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, removes waste material by bowel, sweat, and urination, normalizes blood pressure, helps digestion, and cushions joints.
Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration
- Thirsty
- Bad breath
- Muscle cramps and weakness
- Headache
- Dry skin
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased sweat production if exercising
- Cravings for sugary foods
Causes of Dehydration
- Lifestyle
- Diabetes
- Age
- Stress
- Hormones
- Medication
How much water to drink in a day?
We’ve all heard eight glasses of water in a day, but honestly, it all varies depending on the person. If you have certain health conditions, such as heart problems, thyroid, or more, that require you to consume more water, you should drink water by asking your doctor. However, if you take a prescription that makes you retain water you do not require more. So, no one size fits all. It all depends upon person to person and their conditions. Even a healthy person’s water needs will vary due to their physical activities or exposure to the sun.
Your Skin Needs Moisture
It is vital to maintain a good pH balance in your skin. We wash the face with water after a facewash to maintain pH balance. As we all know, water helps flush out the toxins in the body and improve skin and body health. Small toxins can clog your pores and lead to pimples or acne. Water can help hydrate your skin, helping it breathe. It also helps keep your skin refreshed and maintain its elasticity. Do you know people who drink large amounts of water will have lesser visible signs of aging than those who do not drink water? So, make sure you are drinking enough water to hydrate your skin from the inside out!