Body Water

What is Body Water and why is it Important?

Body water (or hydration) is an important measure when it comes to a healthy body. The human body needs water to function the right way. Finding the perfect balance in your body water is key. Your water intake should compensate the loss of body water. 
A human body can lose body water through the skin, via sweat, urine and by breathing. If the balance is right, you will feel at your best! Your body water is not something you think of everyday. You do however step on a bathroom scale now and then. 
Tanita Body Composition Monitors complete a full body scan and provide you with detailed information about your hydration in seconds. With our broad range of monitors & scales, you can keep track of changes in your body water percentage (and other key body composition measurements) from home with Tanita. 

What is body water?

Body water is the total amount of fluid in a human body. The human body should consist of at least 50% of water. The exact percentage varies based on a number of factors (e.g. age and gender). Body water is the primary building block for cells. It helps to regulate the internal body temperature, strengthens your muscles and moisturizes your skin. These are just a few examples why body water and drinking water is so important.

What is the ideal body water percentage?

The ideal body water percentage varies. It is influenced by different factors. Gender, age and body composition affect this percentage. In general, women have a lower body water percentage than men. This is because women have more tissue than men. The ideal percentage for adult women will fluctuate between 45 and 60%, while the ideal percentage for adult men will be between 50 and 65% of the total body. For the real athletic body types it is even recommended to have 5% more body water than the average adult range.

How can I increase my total body water percentage?

Increasing your body water percentage and improving your hydration can be achieved through a few simple yet effective strategies. Start by drinking at least 2 litres of water per day. This is a general guideline, but individual needs can vary depending on your activity level, health status, and climate. For those who are active, unwell, or living in hotter climates, your body may require more water than the average adult. Given these variations, consulting your doctor to determine your specific hydration needs is a prudent approach.

It’s important not to wait until you feel thirsty to hydrate, as thirst can often be a late indicator of dehydration, particularly in colder environments or when you’re busy or stressed. Making hydration a daily habit can help; carry a water bottle with you and incorporate regular water intake into your routine.

Starting your day with a glass of water is a great practice, as it helps to flush out toxins and waste from your body. Another effective way to boost your body water percentage is by including raw fruits and vegetables in your diet, as they are high in water content. This can complement your fluid intake and provide hydration in a tasty, nutritious way.

Lastly, aim to drink enough fluids so that your urine is light in colour and you are urinating frequently. This can be a good indicator that you’re properly hydrated. By integrating these habits into your daily routine, you’ll enhance your body water percentage and maintain optimal hydration.

How will I know when I have increased my total body water percentage?

To determine if you’ve successfully increased your total body water percentage and have improved your body's overall hydration, using a body composition monitor is the most precise method. A Tanita Body Composition Monitor provides accurate measurements of your body water percentage, allowing you to track changes over time and confirm whether your hydration efforts are making a difference.

In addition to using a body composition monitor, there are several other indicators you can observe to gauge your hydration status:
  • Urine Colour: A key sign of good hydration is light, pale yellow urine. Darker urine may indicate dehydration and the need for more fluids.
  • Frequency of Urination: Increased hydration generally results in more frequent urination. If you notice that you’re visiting the bathroom more often, it may be a sign that you’re well-hydrated.
  • Physical Symptoms: Improved hydration often leads to noticeable benefits such as enhanced skin texture, increased energy levels, and better digestive function. Well-hydrated skin is typically more elastic and less dry, while proper hydration can reduce feelings of fatigue and support regular bowel movements.
  • Overall Well-being: Proper hydration can also impact your overall health and well-being. You may experience reduced cravings, which are sometimes mistaken for hunger, and better physical performance during exercise.
Incorporating these indicators along with regular use of a Tanita Body Composition Monitor will give you a comprehensive view of your hydration status. By tracking these aspects, you can effectively assess whether you are meeting your hydration goals and improving your total body water percentage.

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