Water makes around two-thirds of our body weight and we can’t live without it for more than few days. Every single part of our body; be it cell, organ or tissue needs water.
It plays various important roles in our body. For example: –
- Maintains the balance of body fluids
- Protects the tissues, spinal cords, and joints
- Helps in the digestion of food
- Controls intake of calories
- Regulates temperature of the body
- Lubricate the eyes and joints
- Helps in removal of waste products and toxins
- Keep the skin healthy and youthful
As water is essential for many life processes, without it body would not function in a proper manner. Hence, it is necessary to keep your body hydrated. For this, drinking water and having foods rich in liquid content is a must.
Every so often your body may lose water more than normal. This can happen because of energetic physical activity, excessive sweating, loose motions, vomiting, and diabetes or frequent urination.
This loss results in an imbalance in your body, causing dehydration. This, in turn, makes it difficult for the body to function at its best.
Most of the people are unaware when their body is lacking an adequate amount of water. Understanding the signs of dehydration can help you know when you need to increase your water intake.
Let’s start!
Headaches :
Headaches and dizziness are some of the possible signs that your body lacks water. When the water level of the body falls, it leads to a reduction of fluids surrounding your brain. These fluids protect the brain from minor bumps and movements. This, in turn, triggers irritating headaches and migraines. Plus lack of water leads to the reduction of the flow of oxygen and blood to the brain.
Lack of Concentration :
Dehydration can cause trouble in focusing, forgetting things and problems in communication. This is because the human mind comprises 90% water. An absence of it in the mind can affect your mood and memory. According to some recent reports, dehydration triggers brain-fog along with fatigue, lack of sleep, prolonged standing and feeling faint.
Sudden Food Cravings :
Whenever you have sudden cravings for food, drink a glass of water before eating something. In case of dehydration, the body sends false messages that you are hungry, but in reality, you are thirsty. The desire for having something salty can be due to loss of fluids and electrolytes. To tackle this, have a sports drink which contains sodium. Or make lemon water by squeezing 1 lemon in a glass of water with 1 tsp. salt.
Bad Breath and Dry Mouth :
Bad breath is another signal that your body needs water. Due to lack of water, the body produces less spit, which contains antibacterial properties. So, less spit means the bacteria will not be killed and they will stay in your mouth giving you bad breath.
Along with very bad breath, you can face a problem of dry mouth. Water helps to keep the body’s fluid films moist, as a result of preventing dry mouth.
Constipation and Other Digestive Problems :
Water acts as a lubricant for the digestive system and keeps it supple and clean. This helps to keep your bowel movements regular and prevent constipation. In addition, excessive fluid loss because of loose motions and vomiting can cause heartburn and indigestion. Thus, it is important to maintain hydration.
Joint and Muscle Pain :
Water is a vital part of healthy joints and cartilage and they contain 80% of it. In case of lack of water, bones start grinding against each other, causing pain in joints. But if the body is well hydrated, joints can deal with sudden movements such as running, jumping or falling without any pain.
Dry Skin and Lips :
Another sign of dehydration is dry skin which loses its elasticity. Being the largest organ of the body, skin requires a good amount of water. Lack of water can cause low sweating which means the body is not able to flush out excess dirt. This leads to accumulation of oil and impurities on the skin. Thus, it increases the chances of acne and other skin issues.
Tips for Preventing Dehydration: –
- The most important one; drink plenty of water and other fluids in routine.
- Begin your day with a large glass of water and drink one full glass before every meal.
- In case you have a busy schedule and forget to drink water, set a reminder to drink a glass of water a few times a day.
- Along with water, start eating water-rich fruits and vegetables.
- No matter wherever you go, carry your own water bottle.
So, in case your body is giving you any of the signs, dehydration can be the reason behind it. Examine your body and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Moreover, consult a doctor if you often experience a weak pulse or feel dizzy or extremely thirsty.
Stay Healthy Stay Happy!
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