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The Importance of Staying Hydrated
You might think you’re drinking enough water, but if you spend most of your day with a cup of coffee by your side, you’re probably more dehydrated than you realize. The human body is approximately 70% water, and we lose up to two and a half liters of it daily through normal activities. Even breathing causes significant fluid loss, with about half a liter exhaled throughout the day.
Daily Water Intake Recommendations
Maintaining fluid balance in our bodies is crucial, and drinking enough water is key. According to the Mayo Clinic, drawing on insights from the U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, adult women should consume about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids per day, while men should aim for 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) per day. Although roughly 20% of this intake can come from food (fruits, soups, vegetables, etc.), very few of us meet these recommended levels.
Recognizing Dehydration
How do you know if you’re dehydrated? Dr. Lela Ahlemann, a specialist in dermatology, proctology, and nutritional medicine, shares the seven most common signs that indicate you’re not drinking enough water
Dry Mouth and Thirst
A very typical sign of dehydration is experiencing thirst and a dry mouth. This is often the first indication that you need more water. Not only does a dry mouth signify a lack of fluids, but it also suggests that your immune system is weakening. “A dry mouth can lead to the oral mucosa, an immune defense, being weakened, making you more prone to infections,” explains Dr. Ahlemann. If you can’t drink water immediately, at least rinse your mouth with a little liquid.
Dark Urine or Reduced Urine Production
“When we drink too little, our urine becomes concentrated and changes color,” says Dr. Ahlemann. Ideal urine color is pale yellow. “If your urine is dark, that’s a clear sign you need to drink more. Monitoring your urine is the easiest self-test to check if you’ve consumed enough water.”
Headaches and Dizziness
Headaches and dizziness can result from reduced blood volume due to dehydration, meaning the brain is no longer well-supplied with blood and nutrients. Dr. Ahlemann advises that frequent dizziness should prompt a visit to the doctor.
Fatigue and Concentration Issues
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating are also common signs of dehydration. “Reduced blood volume means our brain is not optimally supplied,” explains Dr. Ahlemann. This can lead to feelings of tiredness and an inability to focus.
Dry Skin and Lips
Typical signs of dehydration include dry skin and lips. Dr. Ahlemann suggests a small self-test: “Pinch the skin on the back of your hand between two fingers and pull it up. If it seems slow to return to its original state, it’s a sign of dehydration.” Many people also experience increased itching and paler skin due to insufficient hydration.
Dark Circles Under the Eyes
“If you don’t drink enough, the blood becomes thicker, making vessels more visible,” says Dr. Ahlemann. Sunken eyes, dark circles, and increased eye wrinkles can all indicate dehydration.
Constipation
Constipation is a typical sign of insufficient water intake. Drinking too little causes the intestines to withdraw too much water from the stool, reducing its volume. When the intestinal tract isn’t full, the body doesn’t feel compelled to eliminate waste. “In medicine, constipation is solid stools due to water deprivation,” explains Dr. Ahlemann. “But many people don’t know that drinking too little can also cause a bloated stomach.”
Recognizing these signs can help you adjust your water intake to maintain optimal health. Ensure you’re drinking enough water daily to keep your body functioning at its best.
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