HEALTH CORNER: I'll drink to that!

by Mrs. Melanie Whipp, R.N.

Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much water. This condition can be caused by diarrhea, vomiting and being in high temperatures or a dry environment (like the classroom) without drinking fluids for an extended period of time. Since it is not always possible to drink enough water during the school day, it is even more important to make up your water intake when you are out of school. It is recommended that we drink 8 cups (8 oz.) of water every day (YES, 8 CUPS!)

Dehydration symptoms are easily recognized; confusion, dizziness, nausea, sometimes fever, and even vomiting. Without enough water in the system, problems can arise such as constipation or kidney stone formation. The human body is composed of 60 - 80% water. In fact, it's been said that our brains are made up of over 80% water. So it's no wonder that dehydrated individuals are likely to feel foggy and battle with poor concentration, fatigue, irritability and headaches. None of which help you out in school or anywhere else!

Besides quenching our thirst, water does many other very important things:

• Water helps to extract and distribute the necessary water soluble vitamins from food such as Vitamins B and C.
• Water is also important in all of the body's joints, tissues and organs as it acts as a lubricating agent.
• Water helps to eliminate toxins that are produced during cellular metabolism.
• Water is an essential player in transporting oxygen to all the cells of the body.
• Water helps to ensure that we don't overheat by releasing heat energy from the body via perspiration and evaporation. On a daily basis, we can lose up to a half gallon of water per day just in normal perspiration, urination and breathing (respiration) alone. For people who exercise or exert more energy, the amount of water loss increases.

Adequate hydration has long been linked to good health. Therefore, it's important for all of us to continually replenish the body with water every day, not just when you're feeling thirsty. In fact, when you are feeling thirsty it's too late; you are already moving in the direction of dehydration. So maintain a good fluid intake and drink extra water when exercising or during hot weather.