Dehydration occurs when as little as 2% of our body’s water supply is lost. It is most common when your body is losing more fluid than it is taken in. When your body’s water levels are lowered, it also lowers the mineral content in your body. This leads to a change in the way your body functions. With more than two-thirds of our body being made up of water, it is essential that human beings keep our water supply high.
The most important parts of our bodies use water to function. This includes our brain, blood, eyes and digestive system. Dehydration can easily be recognised through light-headedness or difficulty focusing. However, the list of symptoms for dehydration is extensive.
- Lack of water supply in the body leads to dehydration. Dehydration has numerous warning signs, including;
- Dryness of the mouth
- Dry skin
- Dark coloured or strong smelling urine which passes less often
These symptoms can be experienced individually or all at once. Many people are unaware that all their body is asking for is a glass of water. Drinking just one or two glasses of water when feeling any of these symptoms could reduce risk of further dehydration.
What causes dehydration?
Dehydration, as mentioned above, is typically caused from simply not drinking enough fluids. The fluid you lose each day needs to be replaced. If you do not do this, your body will begin to function differently. Hot climates, physical exercise and illness can also increase the risk of dehydration.
Anyone can become dehydrated and it is very easy to do. However, some people are more at risk than others. This includes infants, the elderly, people with diabetes and athletes. All of these groups of people must ensure that they are drinking enough water to keep them hydrated every single day.
When to see a doctor;
Dehydration is not always a serious incident. It can most often be solved by simply drinking one or two glasses of water when feeling a headache coming on or mild fatigue. However, if you feel dizziness or weakness to a higher extent, it may be time to see your GP.
Contact your GP immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms;
- Intense fatigue or confusion
- Blood in your faeces or vomit
- Fast heartbeat
- Unusual dry skin
- Not urinating for over 8 hours
- Constant dry eyes and mouth
Severe dehydration must be treated by quickly delivering fluids to the body through an IV. Also, severe dehydration could be a symptom for more serious illness such as diabetes. However, those who drink the recommended daily amount of water are much more likely to avoid any potential problems that come with dehydration. This makes adequate water consumption very important.
Benefits of drinking water;
As emphasized above, drinking water is an extremely important factor in your daily routine. Not only does drinking water decrease your risk of dehydration, it also has a vast number of other health benefits, such as;
- Increased concentration levels
- Healthier skin and hair
- Weight loss
- Increased energy levels
- Provides the body with more vitamins and minerals
- Increases abilities in exercise
- Reduces headaches and fatigue
- Detoxes the body
- Regulates the digestive system
- Reduces risk of illness
- Regulates body temperature
- Helps kidneys and liver function properly
- Lubricates joints
- Protects organs and tissues
- Reduces the risk of bladder, colon and breast cancers
Easy ways to start drinking more water;
You might think that drinking more water is difficult to remember or to fit into your daily routine. However, it really is quite simple. Follow these steps for easy tips to reach the recommended daily water intake.
How much should I drink?
It is recommended that we drink 8 glasses of water every single day to maintain a healthy water supply and avoid dehydration.
Drink a large glass of water when you wake up
Your body loses fluids overnight as you sleep. It is important to revitalise your system with a large glass of water every morning to kick start your day.
Eat more fruit and veg
Fruit and vegetables contain high amounts of water alongside numerous other beneficial nutrients.
Buy a decent water bottle
If you purchase a plastic water bottle it will make it easier to keep track of the amount you drink. Take the bottle to work and refill every couple of hours to maintain a healthy body water supply.
Replace unhealthy drinks with water
Stop pushing empty calories into your body with sugary soft drinks, alcohol or caffeinated hot drinks. Drink water instead! Not only will your body thank you for the hydration but you will also be likely to see improvements in your skin, hair growth and dental hygiene.
Drink a glass of water with each meal
Not only will water help you feel satisfied for longer, but drinking water with each meal will also prevent over-eating as well as hydrating your body.