The adult human body consists of up to 60% water and requires a constant supply to stay alive. However, despite water being essential to life, there are a lot of myths. Here’s what you need to really know.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
Everyone has heard that you should drink eight glasses of water per day. In reality, the answer is much more complicated. The body loses water throughout the day through urine and sweat, so it’s important to replenish as much as possible. How much your body needs depends on your body mass index, if you’re in a hot climate and how much you exercise. Generally speaking, eight glasses of water per day is a good goal. However, most health experts say to simply keep water always on hand and sip as much as you want throughout the day.
The Effects of Dehydration
When the body doesn’t receive the hydration it needs, it can have negative consequences. Dehydration can:
- Cause headaches and migraines
- Affect your body’s ability to cool down
- Make skin look less supple and youthful
Improved Muscle Function and Joint Lubrication
Your body starts to see the impacts of dehydration when it loses as little as 2% of its water content. During an average workout, a person can lose as much as 10% of their water weight through sweat. If you don’t provide your muscles with the water they need, you will see a decrease in your muscle’s overall performance. Working out when you’re dehydrated makes exercises feel more difficult.
Additionally, proper hydration helps to lubricate joints so you can perform better.
Increased Energy Levels and Brain Function
Improper hydration can quickly impact a person’s energy levels and brain function. Studies have found that dehydrated individuals are more likely to experience momentary memory issues, anxiety and fatigue.
Cleanses the Body Inside and Out
Proper hydration can help people struggling with constipation. When the body has enough water, it can help to improve bowel movements.
Water is also essential for proper kidney function. The body produces urine as a way to rid the body of waste. Without adequate hydration, the kidneys can stop working and cause toxins to build up in the body. This can result in urinary tract infections, kidney infections and kidney stones.
Great for Weight Loss
The brain and the body can sometimes confuse their signals. For example, often when a person thinks they’re hungry, they’re actually just dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water can keep you feeling full throughout the day and eliminate unnecessary snacking. Ideally, drinking water 30 minutes before a meal can make you feel full and eat smaller meals. Not drinking enough water tends to be a common mistake when trying to lose weight.
Additionally, drinking cold water requires the body to use more energy to heat the water to body temperature. People who drink water regularly may see an increase in their metabolic rate, which can help them lose weight.
Diamond Health
Diamond Health is a direct primary care clinic operating in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you’re concerned about your hydration, you should consult with a doctor. Book an appointment today with Diamond Health to discuss your hydration levels and overall health.