What percentage of the human body is made up of water?

The human body is composed of approximately 60-70% water, with the specific percentage varying based on factors such as age, sex, and body composition. For instance, infants tend to have a higher percentage of body water, often around 75-78%, while adult males typically fall into the lower end of this range due to having a higher muscle mass, which contains more water, compared to body fat, which contains less.

While the choice of 60-80% seems to encompass a broader range, it is essential to narrow it down to a more accurate figure, which emphasizes that a significant proportion of the body’s composition is water. This high water content is vital for numerous physiological processes, including temperature regulation, joint lubrication, nutrient transport, and waste elimination, underscoring the critical role of water in maintaining health and well-being.

Understanding the importance of water in the body can help guide nutrition and hydration practices for optimal health outcomes.