NU FS305 Chapter 11: Water and Electrolytes
30 Nov 2016
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Document Summary
Body fluids are composed of water and electrolytes. About 60% of our body weight is water. The water content varies between the different tissues; lean tissue is 75% of water weight and adipose tissue is 25% of water weight. This means that the amount of water in the body is dependent in the person"s body composition. The two compartments that hold body fluids are intracellular (2/3 of all body fluids) and extracellular (1/3 of body fluids). The fluid in each compartment has a different composition. The functions of water include carrying nutrients and wastes as well as acting as a solvent for small molecules. Water provides structure to macromolecules and provides lubricant and cushion. Water also helps maintain blood volume and pressure while helping to regulate body temperature. Water is the highest requirement of all nutrients but the exact amount is dependent on diet, activity, temperature, humidity and drugs.
