MILAN – On average our body loses about 4 litres of water per day through physiological bodily functions (breathing, urine, faeces, sweat). When water intake equals water eliminated we have a correct water balance. But if this balance does not exit (in general when about 2% of body weight in water is lost) cellular and tissue dysfunctions, and even real damage to the various organs, may occur. The Buona la vita experts explain what water balance is.
How much water should be drunk
In the deeper layers of the skin and in various tissues the amount of water present is 70%. This percentage should not surprise us. We could say that water is like “glue” for the cells of our body, like scaffolding to which cells adhere. It is quite clear that the consequences of an insufficient daily intake of water can cause damage, even serious damage, to our entire body. For a correct water balance the daily intake of water should be calculated on the basis of 15-25 grams per kilo of body weight. This amount varies depending on how humid and hot it is, and if you are doing intense physical activity or work it is advisable to increase the amount.
The advantages of correct hydration
The sensation of thirst is one of the automatic reflexes that our body has to warn us that we have exceeded the threshold and are approaching dehydration. In certain situations this stimulus is reduced or does not kick in: this is mainly due to impairment of the cells (which are located near the brain in the pituitary gland) that are responsible for the body’s reduced intake of water or an incorrect functioning of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), the water level regulator. Therefore, drinking at least 2 litres of water a day and maintaining the correct water balance helps to improve all the body’s physiological activities preventing the following: feeling tired, concentration difficulties, cramps and in the most serious cases even dizzy spells and fainting.
by Alessandro Conte
