Huntsville, AL-
Students are so busy attending classes, working, and studying that they may be neglecting one of the most important aspects of their life, which is drinking enough water.
According to Medical Daily, 75% of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration. Among students interviewed on the Huntsville campus of Calhoun Community College, however, this number stands at 54%. Even at 20% below the national average for dehydration, this is not good.
When asked how much water students drank on average each day, answers varied to extremes on each end of the spectrum.
“About none,” said Sophomore Chris King, despite recreational hobbies such as basketball.
“I probably drink about three 24 fluid ounce bottles of water a day,” said marathon runner Makayla Tomaino, a sophomore at Calhoun.
“About two gallons,” said Micha, a sophomore in the process of becoming a certified personal trainer.
Despite this above-average percentage of hydration, one out of two students remain dehydrated. With 60% of human bodies composed of water, including 79% of muscles and 73% of the brain, water is essential.
Dehydration can lead to low levels of energy, difficulties in concentration, skin blemishes, and, in some cases, fainting, according to the website Webmd.com
On the contrary, benefits of hydration include optimal brain functioning, better physical performance, appeasing headaches, digestion, and aid in recovery, according to healthline.com. In addition, students were asked in an informal poll how much water they should be drinking each day, giving overall accurate answers, despite their inadequate water intake.
“Probably more than I am,” said freshman Catherine Nunn
“I was always taught seven glasses a day,” said freshman Tyrese Scruggs.
“I believe 12 cups minimum,” said freshman Mark Nuncio