Sections:

Fluids and Hydration, Page 1

Fluids and Hydration: Introduction

Picture of elephants and a person drinking water while riding a bicycle.

The water of life: 
After air, water is the most important nutrient to the human body. A person can go without food for many weeks but only a few days without water. Fluids provide hydrogen, oxygen, and electrolytes (minerals). In this section, we will examine the importance of fluids and the concept and science of hydration. We will also consider modern sources of water, quality issues, and the technology of sports hydration drinks.