What is the process of losing body water called?

Dehydration is the correct term for the process of losing body water. This condition occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to a deficit in the body's water levels. Various factors can contribute to dehydration, such as excessive sweating, illness, inadequate fluid intake, or prolonged exercise without proper hydration.

Understanding dehydration is important in the context of sports nutrition and physical performance since it can significantly impact an athlete's stamina, endurance, and overall health. When an individual is dehydrated, the body’s ability to regulate temperature and maintain energy levels decreases, potentially leading to fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and even serious health risks.

Other terms presented in the options, like edema and hyperhydration, refer to fluid retention or excess water in the body, which is the opposite of dehydration. Hypotonicity relates to the concentration of solutes in a solution but does not specifically denote fluid loss. Thus, recognizing dehydration accurately helps in developing effective hydration strategies tailored to individual needs, especially during sports and physical activities.