From your skin to the brain, every part of the human body depends on adequate hydration to function properly. The following is an examination of the body and its need for water.
• Skin - Without water, it becomes dry and cracked. It is also the main conduit for releasing water from the body.
• Joints and Bones - Water acts as a lubricant between bones. Without water, bones may rub against each other and become brittle.
• Blood - It thickens when the body's lacking water, which makes it difficult for the heart to pump and distribute blood to the rest of the body. Plus, capillaries shut down creating obstacles for nutrients circulating to vital organs.
• Kidneys - Without water, the kidneys are unable to remove toxins, wastes and salt from the blood. The risk of kidney stones also increases.
• Liver - Metabolizes fat. But if the body's not getting enough water, it has to perform some of the kidney's functions, which means it's not metabolizing as much fat as it should.
• Digestive System - When the body's dehydrated, the organs of the digestive system have to work harder than normal and become strained, which results in constipation and abdominal cramps.
• Brain - Without water, the body will experience a loss of nutrients flowing to the brain. Temporary results are dizziness, confusion and irritability. Long periods of dehydration can cause permanent damage to the brain. Water also cushions the brain, which means, if the body is dehydrated, the brain is more vulnerable.
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