Introduction
The Importance of Water
After air, water is the most important nutrient to the human body. Did you know that person can go without food for many weeks but only a few days without water? Water is a part of every bodily function from digestion to circulation, from cell function to temperature control and removal of waste products.
Because your body is constantly losing water through breathing, sweating, and digestion you need to continually replace the water through rehydration, which is the act of replacing water or causing something to absorb water.
You can get water from sources besides a plastic bottle or the faucet. Consider all the drinks and foods you consume that contain water – it doesn't have to be plain tap water. It does not matter where you get your water, as long as you stay hydrated!
Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to...
- List the function of water in the body and list sources for water in diet
- Distinguish between the symptoms and wellness risks of fluid volume deficit or excess fluids and hydration
- Complete a written evaluation of various commercial fluid products (bottled water, sports drinks, soda pop, vitamin drinks) and their value in wellness
Essential Questions
- Why do I need water and other fluids?
- How much water do I need?
- What happens if I get too much or not enough water?
- Are other sources good enough for fluid requirements?
- Are sports drinks, energy drinks, or sodas good for me?
Enduring Understandings
- The body requires a variety of nutrients to work efficiently.
- Water and fluids are essential to body functions.
- Water is the second most important nutrient to our body.
- Water has five main functions in the body.
The above objectives correspond with the Alabama Course of Study: Dietetics standards: 2, 5.