HTF 200: INTRODUCTION TO NUTRITION

CHAPTER 6: WATER

The average adult’s body weight is 50-60% water. Men generally have proportionally more water than women, and a lean person has more than an obese person.

Functions of water:

      Water serves as the medium for many metabolic activities and also participates in some metabolic reactions.

      Water transport nutrient to the cells and carries away waste materials to the kidneys and out of the body.

      Water is needed for digestion and absorption.

      Water maintains blood volume.

      Water helps you maintain normal temperatures by sweating.

      Water serves as important part of body lubricants.

The adequate intake for total water is based on average water consumption of people who are adequately hydrated. About 80% comes from beverages, including coffee, tea, and cola. The remaining 20% comes water found in foods.

When it is normal and healthy, the body maintains water at a constant level. A number of mechanisms, including the sensation of thirst, operate to keep body water content within certain limits.

Bottled water is regulated by the FDA.

Reference: Drummond, K. E. & Brefere, L. M. (2010). Nutrition for foodservice and culinary professionals. New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.