Effects of Dehydration: Are you drinking enough water?
Hey guys, this is probably something we all think about, just maybe not enough, do you think you drink enough water?
Drinking enough water every day is so important, your body NEEDS water to function properly.
“But I don’t get thirsty” – drink anyway! Did you know one of the first symptoms of dehydration is lack of thirst? But I bet you eat when you’re not hungry don’t you?
“But I’m on the toilet all day if I drink too much!” This is a clear sign that your body is far too used to being without sufficient water. When it gets more than usual it gets rid of it quickly because it doesn’t know what to do with it. After a few days of drinking enough water your body will adapt to its new water allowance and begin using it properly… in nearly EVERY cell in your body. Your wee should be should be mostly clear with only a slight tinge of yellow and nearly no odour. Dark strong smelling during is a sure sign of dehydration. Not the most glamorous thing to study but its important and helpful to note… think of this blog the next time you go for a wee!
Effects of Dehydration
Feeling tired or fatigued? You’re probably thirsty. Inadequate water causes a drop in blood volume, which makes your heart work harder to deliver oxygen to the rest of your body.
Feeling hungry but you know you’re not? Again, You’re probably thirsty. The body isn’t great at distinctly recognising if its hungry or thirsty, have a glass of water instead of 7 biscuits! Clinical studies have shown that drinking water in between meals suppresses the appetite, boosts your metabolism and increases the rate that the body can break down fat.
Got a headache or migraine? Or suffer with them regularly? Dehydration can be main culprit! Get a glass of water. Maintaining a good water intake will keep headaches at bay.
Skin looking dull? Water helps to moisturise skin, replenish skin tissues and increases elasticity. A well hydrated body increases capillary blood flow, giving a healthier and more youthful appearance.
Head up your ass today? Mild dehydration (just 1-2% lower hydration level) negatively affects your mood and ability to think. Have a glass of water and get some fresh air at bootcamp and those lovely endorphins from exercise will work like dream. Not to mention releasing some tension on those boxing pads.
Are you trying to lose weight? Simply replacing sugary or calorie filled drinks reduces your daily calorie intake (drastically if you drink a lot of these!). Muscles need water for fuel and because they’re made up of about 80% water, being properly hydrated is key for lean muscle growth and more lean muscle means more resting caloric expenditure (burning calories while you’re resting).
Painful joints? Cartilage which is a rubbery material that coats our bones is made up of 85% water, being hydrated ensures our joints move smoothly making for a more enjoyable workout and preventing injury.
Get a bottle of mineral water next to your bed and have a good drink as soon as you open your eyes on a morning while your stomach is empty, it wakes up your body and kick starts your metabolism. Your body is working so hard during the night, a good sleep leaves you dehydrated so replenish the nutrients that have been depleted so you can start your day right. Continue to drink at regular intervals throughout the day – using an app or setting a reminder on your phone can be helpful.
Look after yourself, you only get one body, treat it right.