Encomium
A lot has been said about water – drink this number of glass daily, drink so much water daily but really, how much water does your body need? Can you really drink too much water? All these and more about water were discussed by our specialists this week.
‘Water helps the kidney’ -DR. AKINGBOLA FEMI
How much water should be consumed in a day?
About 60 percent of our body is made up of water so, the essence of water to the body cannot be over emphasized. The kidney makes about 1.5 litres of water every day so, it is advisable to take about 1.5 to 3 litres of water daily.
What are the benefits of water to the body?
Water helps the kidney in its glomerular filtration process which helps to rid the body of toxic substances. Water is also responsible to keep the blood pressure normal.
It is responsible too for the proper functioning of the cell that helps in digestion, regulation of body temperature, etc.
Is it possible to drink too much water?
Yes, it is possible to drink too much water. This can lead to dyselectrolytaemia which could manifest as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain etc.
‘Water carries nutrients to the cells’
-ARINOLA ADENIYI (Venivici Health Club & Urban Spa)
How much water should be consumed in a day?
Water, it is usually said is life! Water is 60-70 percent of the human body. It has been said that an adult can go for weeks without food, but will die after about 10 days without water!
What are the benefits of water to the body?
Water is a vital nutrient. It carries nutrients to the cells, flushes toxins out of the vital organs, protect joints and organs. Water increases metabolism and gives you a healthy glow and beautiful skin.
The general rule of thumb is usually 8 glasses per day – which is approximately 2 litres! Some school of thought believe there is no scientific evidence to back this, but it has become a widely acceptable recommendation. Some school of thought will say you need to drink water based on your body weight! Some recommend sipping water every 20 minutes. Others will tell you to drink water when you are thirsty. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Is it possible to drink too much water?
Hyponatraemia – Drinking too much water can also damage the body. It is very rare though!
‘Lack of water can lead to dehydration’
-DR IFE OLALEKAN
How much water should be consumed in a day?
Studies have produced varying recommendations over the years, but in truth, your water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are and where you live.
Although, no single formula fits everyone, knowing more about your body’s need for fluids will help you estimate how much water to drink each day.
The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly about 13 cups (3 litres) of total beverages a day. The average for women is about 9 cups (2.2 litres) of total beverages a day.
Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding need additional fluid to stay hydrated. Large amounts of fluid are used especially when nursing. The Institute of Medicine recommends that pregnant women drink about 10 cups (2.3 litres) of fluids daily and women who breast-feed consume about 13 cups (3.1 litres) of fluids a day.
Everyone has heard the advice, “Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.” That’s about 1.9 litres, which isn’t that different from the Institute of Medicine recommendations. Although the “8 by 8” rule isn’t supported by hard evidence, it remains popular because it’s easy to remember. Just keep in mind that the rule should be re framed as: “Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid a day,” because all fluids count toward the daily total.
What are the benefits of water to the body?
Water is your body’s principal chemical component and makes up about 60 percent of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues.
Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.
Is it possible to drink too much water?
Although uncommon, it is possible to drink too much water. When your kidneys are unable to excrete the excess water, the electrolyte (mineral) content of the blood is diluted, resulting in low sodium levels in the blood, a condition called hyponatremia.
