Water
Water is the most abundant substance in the human body, making up approximately 80% of it. Without it we would die within days, and water is involved in every bodily function and is there important that it be consumed in large quantities on a daily basis.
The body's level of water is regulated by sodium in the blood. In a healthy person, a rise in blood sodium levels leads to a sensation of thirst. It is possible to satisfy the feeling of thirst long before the body's water needs are met. Even partial dehydration (lack of sufficient water) causes most body functions to operate below peak levels. Health experts recommend that adults drink between six and eight 8-oz glasses of water per day. These needs would increase in hot and dry weather.
The daily fluid quota does not have to be met by consuming plain water. Fruit and vegetable juices, non caffeinated carbonated beverages, mineral water, and milk can all be used as alternatives. Drinks with alcohol and caffeine are of limited value; they provide your body with fluids but also act as diuretics that flush fluids from the body. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention. Heat stroke and even death can result if as little as 10% of the body fluids are lost and not replaced orally or intravenously.
Since water is essential for human survival, it is recommended that one consume safe drinking water. Bottled and various spring waters continue to come down in price and can be augmented with even cheaper water filtering solutions that can remove many harmful minerals and biological matter.
