Importance of water consumption for health and well-being

Water is an essential nutrient for maintaining a healthy organism and overall well-being, particularly during hot weather. It performs critical biological functions, including nutrient transport, metabolite elimination, temperature regulation, and providing structural and lubricating properties.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) generally recommends a daily intake of 2 liters for women and 2.5 liters for men, though factors such as physical activity and environmental conditions can alter these needs. Scientific evidence suggests that much of the European population fails to meet these guidelines.

Dehydration involving a loss of 2% or more of body mass can negatively impact physical performance, mood, and cognitive abilities, including attention, short-term memory, and visual-motor coordination. Vulnerable groups at higher risk of hypo-hydration include children, the elderly, and pregnant or lactating women.