Water is the most abundant substance on earth. The human body is composed predominately of water. We simply cannot survive without it, making hydration status an important consideration. So, how do we go about staying properly hydrated?
Obviously, drinking water is an important key to remaining properly hydrated, however we also ingest water in other beverages and in the food we eat. In the U.S., food contributed between 20% to 30% of total water intake, leaving the remaining 70% to 80% of total water intake from beverages.
As stated in the Dietary Reference Intakes for Water, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulfate:
Over the course of a few hours, body water deficits can occur due to reduced intake or increased water losses from physical activity and environmental (e.g. heat) exposure. However, on a day-to-day basis, fluid intake, driven by thirst and the consumption of beverages at meals, allows maintenance of hydration status and total body water at normal levels. (FNB 2004)
While few would argue that drinking water is a great way to stay hydrated, far fewer would agree that consuming caffeinated beverages also contributes to hydration. The common perception is that caffeine has dehydrating effects. However, research now shows that coffee, tea, and other caffeine-containing beverages do not negatively affect indicators of hydration in those who are accustomed to consuming caffeine. Therefore, caffeine-containing beverages can be considered as part of daily total water intake.
Normal hydration status can be achieved by consuming a wide range of foods and beverages, including caffeine-containing beverages. So, as the mercury rises this summer remember that proper hydration is easily achieved!
For more information on hydration visit http://www.ilsina.org/programs/hydration.htm. To learn more about health, nutrition and food safety visit ific.org.
