1/29/00
Did you know a person can go 2 weeks without eating a thing but only 2-3 days without water?
The vast majority of the body is water. Water is needed to bathe body cells, carry nutrients and medications to cells, remove waste products and control body temperature. Electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium are also important. Both work to maintain fluid balance in the body and control the beating of the heart.
Ironically, there is no % Daily Value for water, sodium or potassium. Variances in body weight, medical condition, medications and other factors make it difficult to pinpoint a specific number. There are some recommended ranges for healthy adults.
Irritable bowel disease includes many symptoms including blood loss, fever, vomiting and diarrhea. An ostomy, especially ileostomy, increases fluid need. Any of these chronic conditions can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalance. In young children especially, this can be fatal.
Below is a list of symptoms of low levels, recommendations for people with fluid
loss and the "home remedy".
| Dehydration: | Marked thirst, dry skin and mucous membranes; decreased urine output; shortness of breath; abdominal cramping. |
| Recommended Intake for Healthy Adults: | 8 cups of fluid a day |
| Recommendation for People at Risk: | 10-12 cups a day |
| Home Remedy: | Take in any fluid, water is best. Avoid caffeinated beverages. |
| Sodium Depletion: | Loss of appetite; drowsiness; abdominal cramps |
| Recommended Intake For Healthy Adults: | 2400-3000 mg a day (American Heart Association) |
| Recommendation for People at Risk: | As desired |
| Home Remedy: | Use salt as desired at the table, canned soups, pretzels, soda crackers… |
| Potassium Depletion: | Muscle weakness; gassy, bloated feeling; fatigue; decreased sensation in arms and legs. |
| Recommended Intake For Healthy Adults: | 1800-5000 mg a day |
| Recommendation for People at Risk: | 5000-7000 mg a day |
| Home Remedy: | Consume 2 potassium rich foods a day, preferably one at breakfast and one at dinner |
CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY FOR ANY SYMPTOMS OR
PROBLEMS NOT RESPONSIVE TO INCREASED FLUID OR ELECTROLYTE INTAKE.