( MENAFN - The Conversation) Water is essential for daily functioning and health, and we can only survive a few days without it. Yet we constantly lose water through sweat, urination and even evaporation when we breathe. This is why we have evolved a way to regulate and maintain water in our bodies.
Like other animals, our survival relies on a strong biological drive that tells us to find and drink water to balance fluid loss. This is thirst – a sensation of dryness in the mouth signalling we need to have a drink. This basic physiological mechanism is controlled mainly by part of the brain's“control centre”, called the hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus receives signals from various regions of the body and in return, releases hormones that act as a messenger to signal the thirst sensation. Staying hydrated (having enough water in our bodies) is important for several reasons , including: Dehydration occurs when our body doesn't have enough water. Even slight drops in fluid levels have noticeable consequences , such as headaches, feeling dizzy, lethargy and struggling to concentrate.
Chronic dehydration can pose more serious health risks, including urinary tract infections, constipation and kidney stones. Despite thirst being one of the most basic biological drivers for good hydration, science suggests our feelings of thirst and subsequent fluid intake don't always correlate with hydration levels. For example, a recent study explored the impact of thirst on fluid intake and h.