Water is a source of life. It is an integral part of the body and represents 70% of the total body weight.
How much water should we consume per day?
The amount of water we should drink depends on several factors: physical activity, body weight, climate factors, etc. On average, adults should consume 1.5–2.5 l per day . Water needs children have depend on the age of the child, loss of water through the skin and lungs, the clinical condition of the child (diarrhea, vomiting..) and microclimatic conditions (temperature, humidity)
| Body weight | Water intake |
| 36kg | 1.2l |
| 45kg | 1.5l |
| 54kg | 1.7l |
| 63kg | 2l |
| 72kg | 2.3l |
| 81kg | 2.6l |
| 90kg | 3l |
| 99kg | 3.3l |
| 108kg | 3.5l |
| 117kg | 3.8l |
| 126kg | 4.2l |
| 134kg | 4.5l |
| 145kg | 4.7l |
What if we don’t consume enough water?
If we do not consume enough water symptoms like strong thirst , dry mucus of the mouth appear, the tongue becomes dry and coated. Due to reduced intake of water and fluids, blood pressure may decrease. Urine excretion also decreases , it becomes darker and more concentrated.
What is dehydration?
Dehydration is a condition in which greater loss than fluid intake happens. In addition to fluid loss, a loss of electrolytes occurs as well, resulting in a violation of the correct distribution of liquids, i.e. compression of all metabolic processes.
What are the conditions that lead to dehydration?
- Febrile conditions, i.e. conditions with fever. If the gastrointestinal tract gets affected, i.e. we have vomiting and diarrhea, the higher the risk of dehydration becomes.
- Intense sweating – occurs in greater physical exertion or exposure to extreme weather and temperature conditions
- Abundant urination
- Diseases in which there is a higher loss of electrolytes and fluids, such as cystic fibrosis, celiac disease.
- Parasitic infections – accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea
How do we prevent dehydration?
Dehydration can be prevented by sufficient intake of water and fluids.
What can we conclude – why is water important to our body?
Water in the body is essential for electrolyte balance, body temperature regulation, normal functioning of the digestive system, improved toxins elimination. The skin needs water to look youthful and healthy. Good hydration is key to better sleep and concentration.
Irena Dimitrovska, MD
