Forms saliva and mucus
Water is essential for the production of saliva and mucus. Saliva is produced by the salivary glands, which are located in the mouth, and mucus is produced by the mucous membranes. The salivary glands produce saliva by secreting water and electrolytes into the mouth. The mucous membranes produce mucus by secreting water and glycoproteins into the body.
Water forms saliva by diffusing into the salivary gland cells and combining with electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. The water-electrolyte solution is then secreted into the mouth. Water also forms mucus by diffusing into the mucous membrane cells and combining with glycoproteins. The water-glycoprotein solution is then secreted into the body.
Cushions the brain and spinal cord
Water is essential for life and it has many functions in the human body, including cushioning the brain and spinal cord. The brain is surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which acts as a shock absorber, protecting the brain from impact. CSF is produced in the choroid plexus, a network of blood vessels in the brain.
CSF is mostly water, with small amounts of protein, electrolytes, and other substances. It circulates through the ventricles (cavities) of the brain and spinal cord, and then returns to the bloodstream. It cushions the brain and spinal cord, providing a buffer against mechanical forces.