Specific Functions of Water in the Body
It has recently been discovered that cell membranes have specific enzyme transport proteins that specifically regulate water molecules into the cell, called aquaporins. The coiled DNA molecule (blueprint instructions directing the construction and activity of all cell components) is saturated with water at specific sites that are necessary for its structure, repair, replication and function. Numerous chemical reactions depend on water and it is a factor itself in many biochemical reactions. Water availability is important to cells, and to the fluids surrounding the cells called interstitial fluids (fluids that surround joints, muscles and organs) and to the matrix of the blood.
Cell membranes contain hundreds of embedded large protein molecules (enzymes) that are responsible for recognizing hormones, transporting nutrients (vitamins, trace elements and salts), and water itself. Large molecules on cell surfaces and within the cell often attach water at specific locations and the water molecules assist in helping the molecules hold their shapes in order to function properly when necessary.
Fluids fill every space in cells and between them. As the primary fluid in the body, water serves as a solvent for minerals, vitamins, amino acids, glucose, and many other nutrients. Water also plays a key role in the digestion, absorption, transportation and use of nutrients. Water is the medium for the safe elimination of toxins and waste products and whole-body thermoregulation is critically dependent on it. From energy production to joint lubrication to reproduction, there is no system in the body that does not depend on water (Kleiner 1999).
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