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Multiple Choice
Which of the following groups is at higher risk for having low total body water compared to others?
A
Adolescent males
B
Infants
C
Elderly individuals
D
Athletes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of total body water (TBW): Total body water refers to the amount of water present in the body, which is distributed across intracellular and extracellular compartments. TBW varies based on age, sex, and body composition.
Recognize the factors affecting TBW: TBW is generally higher in individuals with more muscle mass and lower in individuals with more fat tissue. Age is a significant factor, as TBW decreases with aging due to reduced muscle mass and increased fat tissue.
Analyze the groups provided: Adolescent males typically have higher TBW due to increased muscle mass during puberty. Infants have the highest TBW percentage (around 70-80%) because their bodies are predominantly water. Athletes also tend to have higher TBW due to their muscle mass and physical activity.
Focus on elderly individuals: Elderly individuals are at higher risk for low TBW because aging leads to a natural decline in muscle mass and an increase in fat tissue. Additionally, physiological changes in kidney function and reduced thirst perception can contribute to dehydration and lower TBW.
Conclude that elderly individuals are the group at higher risk for low TBW compared to others, based on the physiological and age-related factors discussed.