What Would Happen If you Didn't Drink water?

What Would Happen If You Didn’t Drink Water?

Water is abundantly present, from soil moisture and ice caps to the cells within our bodies. The average human, depending on factors like location, fat index, age, and sex, consists of 55-60% water.

At birth, human babies are even more water-rich, being 75% water, akin to fish. However, their water composition decreases to 65% by their first birthday. The role of water in our bodies is crucial, as it cushions and lubricates joints, regulates temperature, and nourishes the brain and spinal cord.

Water is not limited to our blood; an adult's brain and heart are nearly three-quarters water, akin to the moisture content of a banana. Lungs are similar to an apple at 83%, and even seemingly dry human bones contain 31% water. Despite being predominantly composed of water and surrounded by it, we still need to drink a sufficient amount. Each day, we lose two to three liters of water through sweat, urine, bowel movements, and even breathing. While these functions are vital, we need to compensate for this fluid loss. Maintaining a balanced water level is essential to avoid dehydration or over-hydration, both of which can have detrimental effects on overall health.

When the brain detects low water levels, sensory receptors in the hypothalamus signal the release of antidiuretic hormone. This hormone reaches the kidneys and creates aquaporins, special channels that enable blood to absorb and retain more water, resulting in concentrated, dark urine. Increased dehydration can lead to noticeable drops in energy, mood, skin moisture, blood pressure, and signs of cognitive impairment.

A dehydrated brain must work harder to accomplish the same tasks as a normally hydrated brain, and it may temporarily shrink due to its lack of water. On the other hand, over-hydration, or hyponatremia, is typically caused by excessive water consumption in a short period. Athletes are often susceptible to over-hydration due to complications in regulating water levels during extreme physical conditions. In cases of over-hydration, the brain may slow or stop releasing antidiuretic hormone into the blood. This can cause sodium electrolytes in the body to become diluted, leading to cell swelling. In severe instances, the kidneys may struggle to handle the resulting volumes of dilute urine, leading to water intoxication, which can result in headaches, vomiting, and, in rare cases, seizures or death. However, such extreme situations are relatively uncommon, and maintaining a well-hydrated system is manageable on a normal day-to-day basis for those with access to clean drinking water.

For a long time, conventional wisdom suggested drinking eight glasses of water a day, but this estimate has been refined over time. The consensus now is that the amount of water needed depends largely on our weight and environment. The recommended daily intake varies, with men generally requiring 2.5-3.7 liters of water and women needing about 2-2.7 liters, with adjustments based on factors like health, activity level, age, and heat exposure.

While water is the healthiest way to stay hydrated, other beverages, including those with caffeine like coffee or tea, can also replenish fluids. Additionally, water from food makes up about a fifth of our daily water intake. Fruits and vegetables like strawberries, cucumbers, and broccoli contain over 90% water and can supplement liquid intake while providing valuable nutrients and fiber.

Proper hydration can also have various long-term benefits, including lowering the risk of stroke, helping manage diabetes, and potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cancer. Regardless, ensuring you consume an adequate amount of fluids significantly impacts how you feel, think, and function on a daily basis.