Chemicals that induce thirst in humans?

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In summary, the conversation discusses various possible chemicals that may induce thirst or make the neurons responsible for thirst in the brain to work without the body genuinely needing water. These include MSG, mass-produced muffins, sugars, starches, and common salt. It is also mentioned that the hypothalamus sends the message that we need a drink. Some contributors suggest that MSG may cause thirst due to the feeling it gives in the mouth, while others mention that it may be a combination of factors at work. It is also noted that thirst from MSG and salt may still fall under the category of the body genuinely needing water.
  • #1
pivoxa15
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Which chemicals induce thirst or make the neurons that are responsible for the brain to feel thirsty work without the 'normal' reasons (body genuinely needing water) for thirst.

My guesses from experience:
MSG
Mass produced muffins (they probably have a chemical that induce this type of thirst)
 
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  • #2
With the muffins, it may have to do with the flour they use in them. Probably a mixture of whole wheat, and all-purpose. Whole wheat flour is the kind that is in graham crackers.
 
  • #3
MSG is a sodium, a salt, which of course can make you thirsty.
Sugars also make you thisty. Starches which convert to sugars in our bodies will make you thirst too.
The hypothalamus, is what sends us the message that we need a drink.
 
  • #4
Interesting question. There probably are such chemicals. THC might, although I could be mistaken.
 
  • #5
Ive heard that getting very thirsty out of the blue is a symptom of diabetes.
 
  • #6
Common salt (sodium chloride) is one of the main causes of thirst, it is common in most foods. Where salty food is the cause of thirst eating an apple (or other potassium rich food) can ease the symptom. Sugars and therefore diabetes can also cause thirst, if you have this problem and sores (cuts etc) seem to take a long time to heal - see your doctor.
 
  • #7
Warfarin?...
 
  • #8
hypatia said:
MSG is a sodium, a salt, which of course can make you thirsty.
I realize that MSG is a salt but it seems to make someone more thirsty than normal salt. For example, 1mg of MSG and 1mg of salt and you feel much more thirsty after the MSG. Plus MSG dosen't taste more 'salty' as normal salt. So other factors are probably at work.
 
  • #9
I think MSG's thirst-inducing comes from the feeling it gives your mouth?
 
  • #10
Wouldn't thirst from MSG and salt fall into the category of the "body genuinely needing water?"
 
  • #11
dimensionless said:
Wouldn't thirst from MSG and salt fall into the category of the "body genuinely needing water?"

There is an element of "body genuinely needing water" because MSG is a salt but thirst after consuming it is so great that one gets a feeling that extra other factors are involved. Such as it making more than enough chemicals in the the nervous system to make one thirsty.
 

1. What chemicals in our body induce thirst?

The primary chemical responsible for inducing thirst in humans is angiotensin II, a hormone produced by the kidneys. Other key chemicals involved in thirst regulation include vasopressin, aldosterone, and prostaglandins.

2. How do these chemicals signal thirst to the brain?

When the concentration of these chemicals in the body increases, they send signals to the hypothalamus in the brain, which then triggers the sensation of thirst. These chemicals also stimulate the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which helps the body retain water.

3. Why do we feel thirsty after consuming salty foods?

Consuming salty foods can increase the concentration of electrolytes in our body, which in turn triggers the release of angiotensin II and other thirst-inducing chemicals. This is the body's way of maintaining the balance of electrolytes and fluids in our system.

4. Can chemicals that induce thirst also cause dehydration?

Yes, excessive levels of these chemicals in the body can lead to dehydration. This is why it is important to consume enough fluids to replenish the water lost through sweating, urination, and other bodily functions.

5. Are there any other factors that can influence thirst besides these chemicals?

Yes, thirst can also be influenced by external factors such as temperature, physical activity, and illness. For example, hot weather and intense exercise can cause the body to lose more fluids, leading to increased thirst. Similarly, certain medications and medical conditions can also affect thirst levels.

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