Health Hazards POD Notes

Water is the single most important nutrient for health, growth, and development; it is critical to the balance of all the body's systems, including the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys and muscles. Mild dehydration is a common causes of daytime fatigue. An estimated 75 percent of Americans have mild, chronic dehydration. Experts recommend that the average person drink 8 to 12 cups of water per day. Avoid fruit juices, carbohydrate gels, sodas, alcohol, and high sugar sports drinks. These drinks can dehydrate the body by stimulating excess urine production and/or decreasing voluntary fluid intake.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be caused by exposure to car exhaust, a faulty heating furnace, or the fumes given off by burning charcoal. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, loss of muscle control, and unconsciousness. It can also cause severe brain damage and death. Never run your car in a closed garage or operate it with a leaking exhaust system. Inspect your home's furnace for proper combustion.

Back to Top