Writer and fitness content manager, Jane Sandwood, guides our readers through the hydration benefits of water consumption and clarifies common misunderstandings related to kidney function.

Water’s Journey Through the Body H2O enters the body through the mouth and flows down the oesophagus to the stomach. From here, it mixes with stomach acids and is absorbed by the food. It will then travel into the intestines, allowing it to later be absorbed into the bloodstream. The blood then takes this water to the kidneys, playing a crucial role in kidney function.

How is Water Gained and Lost by the Body? Obviously, we can consume water by drinking. All fluids contain water, but some may include other substances that can lead to dehydration, such as salt, sugar, or caffeine. We can also consume water through food, particularly juicy fruits and vegetables that are high in water content. Additionally, we even gain some water when we respire, by burning glucose. Yet, at the same time, our body is always losing water. This occurs when we sweat or go to the toilet, as both urine and feces contain water that has been filtered out as excess by the kidneys. Every time we breathe out, we lose water, which is why our breath condenses on a cold day.

What Do the Kidneys Do? The human body contains two kidneys, located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. The heart pumps blood to the kidneys to filter out waste and retain essential substances. Firstly, the kidneys filter the blood for small molecules including water, salt, glucose, and urea. Glucose is easily converted into energy, so the kidneys ensure that all glucose is reabsorbed and returned to the blood. Urea, a waste product, is filtered out to prevent it from circulating in the bloodstream. Regarding salt and water, the kidneys determine the necessary amounts and reabsorb them back into the blood. The remainder is combined with urea and sent to the bladder for excretion. While the kidneys are efficient at maintaining hydration balance, their function can be negatively impacted by our choices in consumption. For instance, alcohol can cause the kidneys to over-dilute urine, leading to dehydration. Without sufficient water, the kidneys struggle to flush out urea while providing enough hydration for the body. Ensuring adequate water consumption is vital for kidney health and helps prevent the emergence of infections or diseases. By understanding these processes, it becomes clear why it is essential for the kidneys to receive enough water. If your urine is clear, it indicates that the kidneys are effectively flushing out excess water. Conversely, dark yellow urine signifies dehydration, indicating that the kidneys are not receiving the hydration benefits they need to function properly.

The Journey of Water Through the Kidneys The kidneys are responsible for controlling the balance of water in the body. Since two-thirds of our body is composed of water, it is crucial to maintain this balance for the normal functioning of our vital organs. Proper hydration benefits not only your energy levels and focus but also boosts your immune and cardiovascular systems. In Texas, the number of preventable hospitalizations linked to dehydration has been increasing. Therefore, proper hydration is essential for the kidneys. This article breaks down the hydration process, helping you understand the importance of sufficient water consumption.