Bones are not dry; they are actually quite watery.
While we often think of bones as hard and completely solid, they contain a significant amount of water. According to studies, including one by Mitchell and others in 1945, bones are about 31% water.
Water Content of Body Parts
The following table shows the percentage of water in various parts of the human body. As you can see, bones are not the only tissue with a high water content.
| Body Part | Water Content |
|---|---|
| Brain | 73% |
| Heart | 73% |
| Lungs | 83% |
| Skin | 64% |
| Muscles | 79% |
| Kidneys | 79% |
| Bones | 31% |
This water is crucial for various functions, including delivering nutrients and removing waste products from bone tissue.
Why Bones Need Water
- Nutrient Transport: Water helps carry essential nutrients to bone cells, supporting their growth and maintenance.
- Waste Removal: Water is also necessary for eliminating waste products from bone tissue, keeping it healthy.
- Structural Integrity: Water contributes to the structural integrity of bones, helping them remain flexible and less prone to fracture.
Therefore, despite their hard and seemingly dry exterior, bones are actually a water-rich tissue.
