Drinking
When liquid enters a human mouth, the swallowing process is completed by peristalsis. This action delivers the liquid through the esophagus to the stomach. Much of this activity relies on gravity to assist the movement. Infants employ a method of suction wherein the lips press tight around a source. A combination of breath and tongue movement creates a vacuum which draws in liquid. Flint notes that drinking can also occur by sipping or sucking from a spoon.
Cats lap up water with their tongues in a spoon-like shape. Only the tip of their smooth tongue touches the water before pulling back quickly. This motion results in a column of liquid being pulled into the cat's mouth. Canines scoop water into their mouths using a tongue shaped like a ladle. Ruminants partially submerge the tip of their mouths to draw in water. Elephants draw water into their trunks and squirt it into their mouths. Giraffes appear to defy gravity when they drink from distant bodies of water.
A decline in total body water leads to dehydration and eventually death by hypernatremia. Lack of hydration causes thirst regulated by the hypothalamus. An overconsumption of water can lead to water intoxication. This condition dangerously dilutes the concentration of salts in the body. Overhydration sometimes occurs among athletes and outdoor laborers. A persistent desire to drink inordinate quantities is termed polydipsia. It may be a symptom of diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus.
The USDA recommends a daily intake of 3.7 liters for an adult male. Adult females require 2.7 liters per day according to federal guidelines. Some nutritionists recommend eight servings of eight fluid ounces daily. Research shows drinking when thirsty maintains hydration within about 2% of needed levels. Evidence-based experts say needs depend on ambient temperature and activity level. People with kidney disease may benefit from drinking beyond thirst.
Evidence of fermented drinks goes back as early as the Neolithic Period. The first pictorial evidence appears in Egypt around 4,000 BC. Most cultures throughout history have incorporated strong drinks into meals and ceremonies. Alcohol consumption has developed into well-established drinking cultures worldwide. Despite its popularity, alcohol abuse poses significant health risks. Cirrhosis, gastritis, gout, and pancreatitis are common consequences of high consumption rates.
A high rate of consumption leads to various forms of cancer. Hypertension develops alongside numerous other illnesses associated with alcoholism. Alcohol addiction is a common malady in developed countries worldwide. Fiebach notes that excessive intake causes physical diseases and psychological conditions. These disorders affect individuals across all demographics globally. The medical community continues to study these widespread health impacts today.
Common questions
How does the swallowing process work when liquid enters a human mouth?
The swallowing process is completed by peristalsis which delivers the liquid through the esophagus to the stomach. Much of this activity relies on gravity to assist the movement while infants employ suction where lips press tight around a source.
What are the specific drinking methods used by cats and elephants?
Cats lap up water with their tongues in a spoon-like shape that pulls a column of liquid into their mouths. Elephants draw water into their trunks and squirt it directly into their mouths.
What health risks occur from dehydration or overconsumption of water?
A decline in total body water leads to dehydration and eventually death by hypernatremia. An overconsumption of water can lead to water intoxication which dangerously dilutes the concentration of salts in the body.
What daily water intake amounts do federal guidelines recommend for adult males and females?
The USDA recommends a daily intake of 3.7 liters for an adult male. Adult females require 2.7 liters per day according to federal guidelines.
When did evidence of fermented drinks first appear in history?
Evidence of fermented drinks goes back as early as the Neolithic Period. The first pictorial evidence appears in Egypt around 4,000 BC.