Proper Hydration

Functions of Water

Water is essential for survival — without it, you can live for just a few days. Water allows your body to perform critical metabolic tasks and to maintain a healthy blood volume. It lubricates our joints, carries oxygen and nutrients to cells, keeps electrolytes in balance, helps kidneys and the liver remove waste, dissolves minerals and nutrients for our bodies to absorb and keeps body tissues moistened.  

Water also helps to keep the body at a constant temperature. When the body gets too hot, it sweats — letting out water, which evaporates and cools the body’s temperature. Water has one other benefit as it relates to weight management: it fills up our stomach and takes away the sense of being hungry.

Water Needs

Aim for six to eight, eight-ounce glasses of water per day. Your water needs may be slightly more or less. If you are drinking enough water to keep your urine clear or pale yellow, you’re doing great. Bright yellow or orange colored urine may indicate dehydration.

This information is reviewed and approved by Amy V. Lukowski, PsyD.