Have You Had Enough Water Today?

Water. About 75% of the earth’s surface is covered with it. A massive amount of fresh water is stored underground in aquifers, much more than on the earth’s surface. Pure water dissolves more substances than any other liquid. Where it travels, water carries chemicals, minerals, and nutrients with it. The total amount on the earth, including fresh and sea water, is approximately 326 million cubic miles of water.

The average person in the United States uses 80 to 100 gallons of water per day. Flushing the toilet takes up the largest amount of this water. About 85% of U.S. residents receive their water from public water facilities, while the remaining 15% supply their own water from private wells or other sources.

Roughly 70% of an adult’s body is made from water. By the time a person feels thirsty, his or her body has lost over 1% of its total water amount. A healthy person can consume up to three gallons of water per day, but drinking too much too quickly can lead to water intoxication. Water intoxication occurs when water dilutes the sodium level in the bloodstream and causes an imbalance of water in the brain.

The daily recommended amount of water is eight cups. Water doesn’t have to be consumed in liquid form only. Many foods, such as fruits and vegetables, contain high amounts of water too. On the other hand, many liquids like soft drinks, coffee, and tea contain caffeine. Caffeine acts as a mild diuretic and can prevent water from traveling to necessary locations in the body.

I can tell when I haven’t had enough water. It has become one of the first things to ask myself when I’m not feeling well—have I had enough water today? Drinking water is one of those things I might forget if I’m not careful, so I always appreciate a friendly reminder. Have you had enough water today?

Water facts taken from allaboutwater.org