Individual water needs are actually very variable. Experts believe that the amount of fluid needed by the organism depends on a number of factors, including our lifestyle. How much water do we really need?

Water intake

In healthy adults, water intake is regulated by thirst. Water is essential for life and is considered the ideal drink that quenches thirst and hydrates. Ironically, it is often ignored as part of the recommendations for healthy eating. Despite the fact that water is the ideal drink, many people prefer juices, coffee, tea and other carbonated, non-carbonated and energy drinks. However, due to the growing number of diabetes, obesity and heart disease, it is necessary to continually point to the importance of healthy, balanced diet and the right choice of drinks. Only in this way can we ensure a long, safe and “painless” life.

The most common reason why we drink water is thirst. While adults usually can well estimate how much water they need and when it is necessary, children and the elderly do not have a well-developed center for thirst. Water is an integral part of the human body, making up about 50 percent of the body mass of women, or 60 percent of the body mass of men. Every function and system of our organism depend on water. For example, water helps digest food, carries nutrients in the cells and provides enough moisture to the ears, nose and throat tissue.

The amount of liquid we consume daily is equivalent to the amount we have lost. Already mild dehydration affects a wide range of cardiovascular processes and processes that regulate body temperature. However, despite changes in body structure and functions, as well as in the environment, most healthy people manage to regulate daily water needs.

Should you drink 8 glasses of water a day?

A common belief about the need to drink 8 glasses of water a day, along with other daily food and beverage intake, is not scientifically based and is a consequence of the recurrence and interpretation of original facts. This error was subsequently systematically and long-lastingly overwritten in the popular press, and the water bottle became a modern fashion addition. The increased amount of water taken is diluted (reduces the concentration of salt) plasma and prevents the secretion of antidiuretic hormone and multiple urine is excreted. There is no health benefit from drinking more 8 glasses of water (about 1.8 L) for the body or for kidney or bladder health. In the case of excessive drinking of some beverages, it is possible to overload the body with some of the ingredients of these beverages.

Excessive drinking can lead to more or less serious adverse effects. Such a condition literally is called water poisoning or water intoxication.

Author: Ema Brajdić, IFBB Bikini

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