We know that the Water it is a substance present in all living organisms, but in some it is present in greater quantities than in others. This substance is not stored in our body, so it must be replenished every day several times. But, after all, what is the role of water in the body?
→ How important is water?
Water represents about 60% of the total body weight of an adult individual and almost 80% of a child's body. she is the main component of our cells, but it is also found outside these structures (extracellular fluid). Among the cells that present the most water, those located in the muscles and viscera stand out.
water is a powerful solvent and is related to practically every reaction in our body, since these reactions take place in an aqueous medium. Her too acts in physiological processes, as is the case with digestion, being part of important substances – gastric juice, for example.
THE water is essential for the transport of substances, such as oxygen, nutrients and mineral salts, as it is part of the composition of the
blood plasma. In addition to delivering nutrients to cells, water provides the elimination of substances out of the body. This is the case of urine, which is basically formed by water and toxic substances or in excess dissolved.Also noteworthy is the role of water in regulating body temperature. When the heat becomes exaggerated, the release of sweat, which has water in its composition. Upon coming into contact with the environment, sweat evaporates on the surface of the skin, causing the body to cool down.
In addition to participating in the composition of sweat, the water also forms the tears, essential liquid for the proper functioning of the eyes. Tears prevent the corneas from drying out and clean these structures.
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About 60% of an adult's body is water.
We must also not forget the protection guaranteed by water. The membranes surrounding the nervous system (meninges), for example, are lubricated by liquor, a water-rich substance that provides mechanical protection to this system. the fluids of joints they also contain water and protect the bones from friction. In addition, amniotic fluid protects the fetus from impacts during life development.
→ Importance of hydration
Faced with so many functions, it is essential that we stay hydrated. it is recommended to intake of at least two and a half liters of water daily for our bodies to function properly. In addition to ingestion, this substance can also be removed from all foods, which differ only by the amount of water available in each one.
It is noteworthy that the amount of water to be ingested by a person is also related to the activities they perform and their health status. In addition, the weather also influences. On hot days, for example, we should drink more water, which is also valid for people who perform physical activities.
Some symptoms can be seen when our body runs out of water. Initially, we experience thirst, dry mouth, chapped lips, and darker urine. Urine is one of the most obvious symptoms, and it is essential that it is very clear.
Our organism can go a long time without any food, but not without water. Researches prove that, within three to five days, a person can die if they do not have access to this substance. Therefore, always remember to hydrate yourself, paying special attention to hot days and heavy physical activity.
There is no life without water!
By Ma. Vanessa dos Santos
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SANTOS, Vanessa Sardinha dos. "Importance of water for the human body"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/biologia/importancia-agua-para-corpo-humano.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
