In many ways, this is also responsible for and compounded by the bad eating habits and obesity so prevalent in today's Western societies. Electrolytes work in conjunction with the water levels in the body, and is responsible for conducting electricity within the body. This is essential for the normal functioning of cells and organs. Sodium and potassium are both positive ions, or cations, within the body, while chloride is a negatively charged anion. Sodium and Chloride are found in fluids outside of cells, while potassium is found inside of cells. Sodium is responsible for water regulation in the body, as well as electrical signals to and from the brain. Too much or too little sodium can be fatal. Excess is discarded through urine. Inside cells, potassium regulates the heartbeat and function of muscles. A lack or excess of this electrolyte can also be fatal, as it can lead to heart failure. Chloride works in conjunction with Sodium in order to maintain the fluid balance in the body. Too little chloride is indicated by problems such as diarrhea, and an excess can lead to problems such as vomiting or kidney disease (Stoppler, 2006).

Alcohol, a depressant, and caffeine, a stimulant, provide the body with water on a temporary level only. They are however diuretics that are responsible for more water loss than replacement. Persons who drink these substances should ensure that they replace water loss with extra water intake.

Several steps can be taken to ensure that a person does not become dehydrated. Elements such as weather conditions and exercise levels should be taken into account when assessing one's hydration needs. When exercising,...

This is not a common condition, but untrained athletes may tend to over hydrate during exercise. As the effects of this can be severe, it is a danger that athletes should be aware of.
On average, human beings need at least 8 glasses of water per day. Even if thirst is less detectable, therefore, people should ensure that they drink at least this amount of water during their daily lives. If alcohol or caffeinated drinks are taken, more water must accompany these drinks as well. Common symptoms of dehydration such as headaches should be seen as such, and more water should be taken before medication is considered. Taking medication rather than water will only compound the problem.

Sources

Klotter, Jule. (2001, Aug). Physiological Effects of Dehydration: Cure Pain and Prevent Cancer. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients. Article database: FindArticles.com.

REACT. (2007). Functions of Water in the Human Body. http://www.resultsproject.net/water_functions.html

Stoppler, Melissa Conrad. (2007). Dehydration: How to Recognize and Prevent its Effects. Medicinenet.com. http://www.medicinenet.com/dehydration/article.htm

Stoppler, Melissa Conrad (2006). Electrolytes. Medicinenet.com. http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm

Sutherland, Dianne Z. (2005, Nov/Dec). Beverages: Drinking Enough? Drinking the Right Beverages? University of Massachusetts - Dining Services. http://www.umass.edu/diningservices/nutrition/pdf/NSNovDecR2.pdf.