This Is Why Your Body Needs Water Every Day

We all know that water is essential for life, but have you ever wondered why your body needs so much replenishing?

As explained in the TedEd video above, water is crucial for the body's everyday, biological functions. The majority of the human body is made up of water: We rely on it to lubricate our joints, regulate temperature and to care for the brain and spinal cord. Without enough water, we'd be dry, unfocused, unenergized and creaky.

On average, we lose two to three liters of water a day, through sweat, breath, urine and bowel movements. To compensate, we've got to rehydrate. While past guidance has suggested we drink approximately eight glasses a day, new recommendations say we should drink anywhere from 2 to 3.7 liters (8.4 to 15.6 cups) daily, depending on a person's sex, weight, health and environment.

Before you start chugging from the tap, consider this: Water is naturally a great hydrator, but other beverages like coffee and tea and water-dense foods like fresh fruit and veggies are great sources of hydration too (and they also provide other crucial nutrients, to boot).

Just another reason to eat your vegetables!