HYDRATION: A NEW PARADIGM

Written by: Paul Harris

A common denominator in all living things is the need for water. Building the mol­ecules of life is only possible when their components are dissolved in water. Adequate water intake, and utilization is indispensable to all microorganisms, plants, and ani­mals. The human body is composed of 25 per cent solid matter, and 75 per cent water.

Water is essential to life, and is a key to the rate of aging, immunity, and all biochemical processes that occur in biological systems, especially the brain which consist of about 85 percent water. Water makes life possible because it has unique physical, and chemical properties.

Most people are unaware of what happens to the body if it is not adequately hydrated. Whole metabolic systems are disturbed, often severely by dehydration.

Some signs of dehydration are, bloating or ab­dominal discomfort that occur after drinking wa­ter, dry mouth, or difficulty forming saliva , ­disinclination to drink water because of the taste... sometimes not drinking water, but obtain­ing water from coffee, tea, fruit drinks, or manu­factured beverages. Other symptoms include insatiable thirst... craving and eating sweets fol­lowed by drinking a lot of fluids; lack of elasticity in skin and water retention. Unfortunately, many of these beverages accelerate water loss rather than increasing hydration.

 Dr. Batmanghelidj, a medical researcher, pre­sents a new paradigm regarding the function and role of water in human biochemistry. Scientists have assumed that the solute composition is the governing factor of all biological functions of the body. Water is considered as only a solvent...a space filler, and means of material transport in the body. Science considers the human body as a huge "test tube" with a myriad of solids, and the water in the body as chemically irrelevant "pack­ing material."

It is my belief, and the belief of Dr. Batmang­helidj, that the water (solvent content) of the body indeed governs the activity of all the sol­utes, and directs all functions of the body. When the water metabolism of the body becomes dis­turbed, various symptoms or signals appear. This indicates a "system" disturbance associated with water regulation. In consideration of this view, the importance of water intake has indeed been established. If there is an excessive production or over activity of the regulating neurotransmitter systems (histamine and its subordinate agents), one could assume that ini­tially they are becoming involved in the regulatory action of water manage­ment (rationing) of the body. It is erroneous to block their action by phar­maceutical intervention; their purpose should be satisfied by achieving op­timum levels of hydration.

Water regulates all functions of the body, in­cluding the activity of all the solutes that are dis­solved in it. The bonds that hold hydrogen and oxygen atoms together, permit water to be fluid at the environmental temperatures compatible with life. Water forms the aqueous medium that delivers nutrients to the cells. Water also dis­solves and dilutes poisonous wastes, and re­moves them from the cells. Long-term health maintenance can only be achieved through effi­cient hydration.

THE THREE STAGES OF WATER REGULATION

According to Dr. Batmanghelidj, water regula­tion is divided into three different stages during ones lifetime. The first stage is the life is the life of a fetus in the uterus of the mother. The second stage occurs approximately between the ages of 18 to 25 - when full height is attained. The third stage is from adulthood to the death of the per­son. Dr. Batmanghelidj points out that dehydra­tion begins at an early age, and becomes chronic due to a gradually failing thirst sensation. With aging, the intracellular water content diminishes to the point that the ratio of the volume of water inside the cell, compared to extra-cellular water, changes from a figure of 1.1 to almost 0.8. This is a significant change. Since our daily consump­tion of water directly contributes to cellular func­tion, the decrease in our intake affect the quality of cellular activity. The end result is chronic de­hydration, which contributes to disease symp­toms. In many cases these symptoms are the di­rect result of a water shortage in the body. Fre­quently, these symptoms are treated with medi­cations, ignoring the body's cry for water.

THE MULTIPLE ROLE OF WATER

Water plays other important roles in the body than just being a unique solvent, and means of transport. Hydrolysis, or hydroelectric energy (voltage gradient) is generated at the cell mem­brane, and is stored in the form of A TP. This is used for elemental (cation) exchanges, particu­larly in neurotransmission. Another important function of water is that of forming a specific structure pattern that is utilized as the adhesive material in the bondage of the cellular architec­ture.

The brain cells manufacture products that are delivered to their target in the nerve endings for use in the communication of messages on "wa­terways." According to Dr. Batmanghelidj, there appears to be micro streams along the length of nerves that "float" the packaged materials along "guidelines," called microtubules. Enzymes and proteins are more functional in an optimally hy­drated environment - this is true of all cell membrane receptors... On the contrary, enzymes and proteins operate with less efficiency in a de­hydrated state.

It is becoming more obvious that subclinical, and clinical dehydration activates the histamine directed neurotransmitter system, which promotes water intake, and management. With this system intact, water that is in circulation can be recircu­lated, or can be drawn away from other areas. In addition, prostaglandin's, kinins, renin-angio­tensin, and vasopressin are subordinate systems employed as the intermediary agents. It is impor­tant to remember that there are no water reser­voirs the body can pull from, rather it operates a priority distribution system commensurate to wa­ter intake, and uptake.

It is interesting to note that in amphibian spe­cies, histamine production becomes pronounced when the animal is dehydrated. However, under normal circumstances, production is minimal. Dr. Batmanghelidj states, "For rationing regula­tion of the available water in dehydrated ani­mals, drought management - the naturally coupled response is a proportionate increase in the production rate, and storage of the neu­rotransmitter - histamine. When they come across pain-sensing nerves in the body, hista­mine, and it's subordinate water intake, and dis­tribution regulator's, prostaglandin's, kinins, and PAF (another associated agent,) also cause

pain." Based upon this new shift in thinking, many times, chronic pain caused by excessive histamine production could indeed be the direct result of a water shortage in the body, and should be treated as such.

 DYSPEPTIC PAIN

Dyspeptic pain is indicative of dehydration, and is a thirst signal. More specifically - gastri­tis pain, duodenitis, and heartburn are important signals of dehydration. However, ulcers require more rigid dietary management in addition to water intake. Dr. Batmanghe1idj published an editorial article in the Journal of Clinical Gastro­enterology in 1983, in which he describes his

successful treatment of over 3000 persons with dyspeptic pain. His only medication was water. He states, "They all responded to an increase in their water intake, and their clinical problems associated with the pain disappeared"

Research has shown that after consumption of a glass of water - it is immediately transported to the intestine and absorbed. Within 30 minutes, almost the same quantity of water is secreted in the mucosal glandular layer of the stomach ­ready to assist in the digestive process. Adequate amounts of water are critical for good digestion. The glandular layer of the stomach is normally covered in mucus. Mucus consists of 98 per cent water, and two per cent, the physical "scaffolding" that traps water. This pro­tects the inner lining of the stomach by acting as a natural buffer state.

An important part of this buffer system is so­dium bicarbonate. So­dium bicarb becomes trapped in the water layer. This provides protection for the stomach from excessive acid production, by neutralizing it. The result of this natural biochemical reaction is an increased salt production, (sodium from the bicarb, and chlorine from the acid). Excess so­dium changes the water holding properties of the "scaffolding" material of mucus. Excessive acid neutralization, and deposition of sodium in the mucus layer would make it less homogeneous, and will allow penetration to the mucosal layer; resulting in dyspeptic pain. The resecretion of water through the mucus layer appears to exert a "back-washing effect" on the mucus layer, re­moving the salt deposits. The effectiveness of this phenomenon of course is dependent upon water intake.

As a note of caution: Pains that do not respond to an increased water intake over a period of time, could be the result of a serious pathological condition. It would be prudent for you to consult your family physician.

     Other conditions responding well to proper hydration are: Colitis, and false appendicitis pain. Rheumatoid arthritis pains can initially be considered indicators of a lack of adequate hy­dration in the affected join cartilage surfaces. The cartilage surfaces of bones in a joint contain much water. This "held water" provides a lubri­cating quality. A well hydrated joint obtains its nutrition from the blood supply to its. base at­tachment to the bone. A dehydrated joint will get some form of fluid circulation from the capsule of the joint, producing swelling, and tenderness in the joint capsule.

 LOW BACK PAIN

Dehydration can effect any or all parts of the body - especially the spine, intervertebral joints, and their disk structure. Hydraulic proper­ties of water stored in the disk core as well as other parts of the musculoskeletal system, are in­deed dependent upon adequate hydration. Con­tact surfaces in the spinal vertebrae require waterfor its lubricating property. The disc core within the intervertebral  space also contains water - and sup­port the compres­sion weight of the upper body. Dr. Bat­manghelidj states, "Fully 75 per cent of the weight of the up­per body is sup­ported by the water volume that is stored in the disc core ­25 per cent is supported by the fibrous materials around the disc". The 5th lumbar is affected in the majority of cases. Water appears to be a uni­versal lubricating agent for all joints through an intermittent vacuum effect.

The water is then dispersed by pressure brought about by joint movement. Factors in­volved in relieving back pain are:

* Increased water intake

* Specific exercises (enhances uptake of water into the disc space through a vacuum effect .

*Correct posture

*Regular chiropractic adjustment

Neck pain is also exacer­bated by dehydration, and poor posture. Adequate hydration, and exercise will help establish adequate circulation, and a vacuum within the disc spaces.

Dehydration triggers a series of biochemical events that are the same as the body's response to stress. Dehydration produces stress, and subse­quently actuates several strong hormones which "mop" up some of the water reserves of the body. This in turn will elicit further dehydration.

The body's reaction to stress is to "fight or flight" response, which in turn causes secretion of hormones. Initially, ACTH levels are in­creased with a consequent increase in cortisol se­cretion. Endorphins, cortisone, prolactin, vaso­pressin, and rennin-angiotensin are also part of

the hormonal crisis management team. Endor­phin secretion is induced by stress, and prepares the body for impending danger or hardship. En­dorphins also increases the body's pain thresh­old.

Cortisone: Hydrocortisone, 17-hydroxy corti­costeroid, 17 -OHCS is a hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex. The raw material for cortisol is cholesterol. Exogenous cholesterol in normal conditions accounts for 80 per cent of the total cortisol production, and 25 per cent being syn­thesized by the adrenal cortex. Cortisone mobi­lizes the body's store of raw materials, such as fat, and protein for energy conversion - and synthe­sis of extra neurotransmitters.

Prolactin: Prolactin is similar to growth hor­mone due to its specific action on tissues. It also has no regulatory effect on a secondary endo­crine gland. The only established function of prolactin in man is the initiation, and mainte­nance of lactation. .. even if there is dehydration. Although the nutritional components of milk are indeed important, the water content is of primary importance to the developing fetus. During mito­sis a single cell gives rise to a daughter cell, and 75 per cent or more of its volume requires water. Hydration of the daughter cell enables it to access its other dissolved contents.

Dr. Batmanghelidj alludes to a study con­ducted on mice that revealed when prolactin was increased, there was an increase in mammary tu­mors. He believes that due to the similarity of prolactin to growth hormone - there is more than a casual relationship to chronic dehydration, persistent prolactin secretion, and tumor produc­tion in the breast.

Vasopressin: Vasopressin has a regulatory ac­tion on the bioavailability of water in some cells of the body. It also has a vasoconstrictive effect on the capillaries it activates. The architecture of the cell membrane is bilayer. The adhesive prop­erty of water is partially responsible for cell wall integrity. According to Dr. Batmanghelidj, en­zymes travel, and perform their varied functions in a connecting passageway located between the bilayers of the cell membrane.

He characterizes this waterway as a "water filled beltway". The body has a unique safeguard against significant water loss in the beltway. Dr.Batmanghelidj states, "The vasopressin receptor converts to a 'showerhead' structure when vaso­pressin hormone reaches the cell membrane, and fuses with its specially designed receptor". Vaso­pressin plays a key role in water management, and rationing in dehydration.

 Rennin-Angiotensin system: This system is a primary regulator of aldosterone, which is pro­duced by the zone glomerulosa. The juxtaglom­erular apparatus of the nephron is responsible for the release of rennin (an enzyme) into the general circulation. Rennin-angiotensin (RA) plays a crucial role in water regulation, and is a subordi­nate mechanism to histamine activation in the brain.

The (RA) system is extremely sensitive to de­creased levels of fluid volume in the body, and sodium depletion. The (RA) system is also re­sponsible for vasoconstrictive action on the cap­illary bed, and the vascular system. This system is largely responsible for restoration of fluid vol­ume in the body. Adequate hydration is essential since hypertension can occur from prolonged (RA) activity

The answer to rehydration is not always solved by increasing water intake. Though dehydrated, the body may not be able to utilize more water. Glenn Braddy, an Australian architect, and nutri­tion researcher, has devoted much time to al­chemical solutions to human biological puzzles, such as dehydration. Mr. Braddy, and IFA (Inter­national Foundation of Alchemists) have discov­ered the "Sleeper Phenomenon". In simple terms, a 'sleeper' is a vital component of body chemis­try which has gone into a state of suspended activity, a 'hibernation'. In other words, the component is indeed present in the body, but not functionally active.

According to Braddy, the sleeper can be an amino acid, vitamin, or mineral. As long as the sleeper remains inactive, it will promote symp­toms in the patient. If a patient had a magnesium sleeper, the mineral would be present in the body, but inactive or dormant. The symptomatic result would be that of a magnesium deficiency. The normal approach to a mineral deficiency is to supply that mineral through a dietary supple­ment. However, if magnesium is the sleeper ­the problem will not be solved by adding magne­sium. The obvious answer is to activate the sleeper. The cause according to Braddy, is almost invariably dehydration. It is crucial to point out that in many cases, increasing water intake does not equal uptake or utilization. Many people of­ten identify symptoms of dehydration, and in­crease their water intake but fail to rehydrate. This could possibly explain why some individu­als take certain nutrients, and show little benefit.

The best approach to solving this problem ap­pears to be rehydration, and finding an efficient way of getting water into the body. The key to achieving this is to provide a transporter that will facilitate the uptake of water into the body.

Symptoms of insufficient uptake of water in­clude, remaining thirsty after drinking... dislik­ing the taste of water, or bloating after drinking water. There are many transporters that can be used. Sub-acid fruit juices appear to have the best hydrating effect.

One such transporter that may come as a sur­prise is caffeine. Caffeine is an effective trans­porter, especially for women. Another trans­porter is Dandelion, which is particularly impor­tant for men. Braddy states, "What is important to identify here is that many people who crave sugar, coffee, and other caffeine sources, such as Coca-Cola, and chocolate, are actually using those foods, and beverages to promote rehydra­tion - and address sleeper problems in the pro­cess - although temporarily n. In other words, the body is aware of the sleeper, and actually promotes the craving, or drive to particular ele­ments which can activate the sleeper.

An important point to remember, is that cravings are not the cause of the problem, but the result of the problem. Unfortunately; the intake of these foods can only temporarily alleviate the sleeper problem. The fact that the person craves other beverages, and certain foods - and not water, is a strong indicator of the inability to ab­sorb water.

The notion of increasing caffeine intake through coffee, and tea to enhance uptake of water is not a viable option according to Mr. Braddy. A simple al­ternative is to add Synergy's "Hydration Plus." formula to your choice of sub-acid fruit juice, and water.

 INGREDIENTS

    Organic Coffee, Germanium, Silica, and Dan­delion

Germanium, and Silica: conduct electrons, or amplifies energy - and can also store electricity to a point, and then allows current flow. The transfer of electrons is highly dependent on the availability of molecular oxygen. In terms of how this influences biological systems - it en­hances intracellular communication as well as in­creasing assimilation, and utilization of elements at the cellular level.

  INSTRUCTION FOR USE