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Why Is Water Important to Health Maintenance?

Examples of the Body's Management of Water

Water is needed by every system in the body.  Water flushes toxins, assists in cell functioning, and is a primary supporter of ear, nose and throat functioning.

Acts as a Joint Lubricant.  Water is the basis for the fluids surrounding the joints which allow them to move easily and without pain.  Joints are the places on the skeletal structure where two bones meet and generally work together in a mechanical motion for movement.   Joints consist of cartilage, synovial membranes, tendons, ligaments, bursas, and synovial fluid, which require water to maintain health.

Regulates Body Temperature.  Water is essential for your body to perspire naturally.  Perspiration or sweating is the release of fluid through the body's sweat glands.  Perspiration is the body's mechanism to keep the body cool when under conditions like excessive heat, high activity levels or increased anxiety.  The body cannot adequately perspire in response to this stimuli without proper hydration.

Regulates Digestive System.  Your body requires water to help to move food through the intestinal system and to help rid the body of toxins through urination.

What Happens If You Don't Get Enough Water?

You need to replace the water that your body loses through sweat, going to the bathroom and even breathing.  If you don't replace water lost through daily activity the body may begin to experience dehydration which can lead to seizures, permanent brain damage, and even death.

Symptoms of Dehydration

Watch for these symptoms to evaluate if you are getting enough water or if you are possibly dehydrated:

• Dark yellow, strong smelling urine
• Decreased urination frequency
• Rapid resting heart rate
• Muscle soreness and cramping
• Thirst
• Headache and discomfort
• Lethargy and chills