By: Shineka Bell
July 11, 2010
Water is an essential part of our every day lives, whether we know it or not. In the body water bathes the cells of the body and lubricates and cleanses internal and external body organs. Watery tears lubricate the eyes and wash away dirt, saliva lubricates the mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow foods. Water resists compression so it cushions body compartments such as the joints and eyeballs against shock. In addition, water functions in chemical reactions and help the body regulate body temperature. So as you can see water is needed and is essential for the body to function properly.
Body Temperature Water is important in maintain body temperature, water holds heat, and changes temperature slowly helps keep body temperature constant is important. The bodies temperature should maintain a level around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. If the body temperature rises above 108 degrees or falls below 80 degrees Fahrenheit, death is likely. Sweat also helps regulate body temperature. When the body becomes too hot the brain triggers the sweat glands in the skin to produce sweat, which is mostly water. As the sweat evaporates from the skin, heat is loss, cooling the body.
Chemical Reaction Water is an excellent solvent; glucose, amino acids, minerals, and many other substances needed by body cells dissolve in water. The chemical reactions of metabolism that support life take place in water. Water also helps the proper level acidity in the body.
Dehydration
Dehydration is the process of removing water from a substance or a compound; excessive loss of water from the body or from an organ or body part. There are three types of dehydration: mild, moderate, and severe. According to www.symptomsofdehydration.com mild dehydration occurs when the body has lost 2% of its total fluid. Mild dehydration symptoms are often; but not limited to: thirst, lost of appetite, dry skin, skin flushing, dark colored urine,
References: WWW.ANSWERS.YAHOO.COM WWW.SYMPTOMSOFDEHYDRATION.COM CHAPTER 9: WATER AND MINERALS