Water:
the Critical Nutrient
Heat is inevitably produced in the body during
exercise. Our most effective way of removing heat is through sweating. Essential
nutrients must be supplied from an outside source because they cannot be made by
the body in sufficient amounts. Water is an essential nutrient. Without it human
life cannot survive. Water deprivation kills faster than lack of any other
nutrient.
If water is something you rarely think about, you are not alone. It is seldom
considered a nutrient. Many people don't realize the important part water plays
in major body functions.
Each day water losses are balanced with water intake. The body has a
sophisticated system that works to maintain water balance. Few of us ever
experience malfunctioning of this system. Thirst is a trigger that reminds us to
take in more water. At the same time our kidneys regulate urinary output.
Of all nutritional concerns for athletes, the most critical is adequate water intake. The athlete's immediate need for water is to control body temperature and to cool working muscles. Lack of water, above all other nutrients, has the ability to hinder performance and lead to serious complications. The amount of fluid required is dependent upon how much sweat will be lost during exercise