Thirst facts for kids
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Thirst is the feeling you get when your body needs to drink water or another liquid. It's a very important signal from your body. You can live for a while without food, but you need water to survive. Without enough to drink, your body can become dehydrated very quickly.
Contents
Why Water is Super Important
Water is vital for almost everything your body does. It makes up a big part of your body weight. Think of water as the fuel that keeps your body running smoothly.
How Water Helps Your Body
- Carries Nutrients: Water helps move vitamins, minerals, and food energy to all your cells.
- Removes Waste: It helps your body get rid of waste products through urine and sweat.
- Controls Temperature: When you sweat, water helps cool you down.
- Protects Joints: Water acts like a cushion for your joints and organs.
- Helps Digestion: It helps break down food and move it through your digestive system.
What Happens When You Get Thirsty
When your body doesn't have enough water, it sends signals to your brain. This makes you feel thirsty. It's your body's way of saying, "Hey, I need a drink!"
Understanding Dehydration
Dehydration happens when you lose more water than you take in. This can make you feel tired, dizzy, or give you a headache. If you get very dehydrated, it can be serious. That's why it's important to drink water regularly, even if you don't feel super thirsty.
Signs of Not Enough Water
- Feeling thirsty (of course!)
- Having a dry mouth
- Not peeing very often, or your pee is dark yellow
- Feeling tired or sleepy
- Having a headache
How Much Water Should You Drink?
The amount of water you need depends on many things. This includes your age, how active you are, and the weather. Generally, kids and teens should drink several glasses of water each day.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
- Always carry a water bottle with you.
- Drink water before, during, and after playing sports.
- Choose water instead of sugary drinks like soda.
- Eat fruits and vegetables that have a lot of water, like watermelon and cucumbers.
Images for kids
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How your body controls water levels.
See also
In Spanish: Sed para niños
