Dehydration Prevention is Key

Just as when we go to our primary care doctor to get semi-annual check-ups, maintaining a positive foundation of hydration is equally as important. Waiting until you are dehydrated to hydrate yourself is just like waiting until your plants turn brown to water them. There are various “suggestions” when it comes to how much water should you drink a day, but the current, most scientifically driven one is drinking your body weight multiplied by 0.67 (in ounces). So, get your calculators out and figure out how much you should be drinking.

---

What is so great about water?

Well, around 60% of your body is made up of water. That means, other than oxygen – which is also crucial to survive – water is the second most important element for your body to survive and function at its full potential.

 

DIGESTION

Water acts as a lubricant and fuel for your digestive system. Keeping your digestive system healthy makes bathroom breaks a lot easier.

OUR ORGANS

You know that pumping thing in your chest? Well, the heart is also made up of a percentage of water and so is the blood. The less water in our system, the harder our heart needs to work to pump out the good stuff to keep ourselves going.

TEMPERATURE

This should be a no-brainer. Have you heard of liquid-cooled computers? Yeah, it’s the same, kind of. The water in our bodies acts as a natural “cooling system” when your body is overheated, you sweat. In turn, this cools us down and regulates our temperature. However, what happens when we don’t have enough water? I’ll let you think on that.

---

“Drink plenty of fluids and get some rest.”

How many times have you heard this from your mother, aunt or doctor? Well, it is true! – to a point. Water is the “fuel” for our bodies, this also includes… our immune system. Therefore, in order to help prevent getting sick or speed our recovery from illness, is to make sure we are drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water.

---

Dehydration is no joke

We can go weeks without food, but without water? Let’s put it into perspective – If today is Tuesday and you didn’t drink ANYTHING, and ate non-hydrating foods. You would not see the weekend. Humans can only last a matter of days without a proper amount of water. Therefore, it is absolutely crucial for us to make sure we are properly hydrated. In the event of severe dehydration, it should be promptly remedied before further symptoms occur.

Moderate Dehydration Symptoms

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Dry skin
• Dehydration headaches

Severe Dehydration Symptoms

• A rapid and/or weak pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Confusion
• Lack of sweat

Alcohol and caffeine can cause dehydration as well as venturing outside, physical activity, not drinking water, vomiting, diarrhea and even taking a hot shower. It is best to be sure you are always thinking of your hydration and making sure you get enough water.