Are you suffering from muscle cramps, dry skin, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, extreme thirst, or dark-colored urine? These symptoms can be an indication that you are dehydrated, either due to not enough water intake, or losing too much fluid through sweating, urination, diarrhea or rapid breathing. Although there are other serious medical problems that can cause some of these symptoms (like diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney disease, etc), it could just be that you’re dehydrated - and staying properly hydrated, especially during hot weather, is essential for good health.
Here is an excellent article from Mayo Clinic that discusses some of the problems that can arise from not getting enough fluids, as well as some of the symptoms of dehydration. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086
How do we know if we are drinking enough water? First, we need to know how much water is recommended for each day. With that being said, the recommended amount of water for staying hydrated varies from person to person. A few of the factors that can cause variation include:
1. Sweating
2. Weather condition
3. Physical activity
4. Clothing
5. Medications such as diuretics (also known as “fluid pills")
You may have noticed that I keep mentioning water. Sure, there are plenty of drinks that will quench your thirst, but water is best. Some say that an individual should aim for at least 64 oz. of water per day. However, the variables mentioned above can alter that number.
It’s always a good idea to take extra steps towards ensuring a day that will provide hydration. Some tips that might be helpful to you are: Create a routine for yourself -when will you drink water and how much? Get an app for that! There are plenty of free apps that can assist in tracking and reminding users of when to hydrate and how much they should consume. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables with high-water content.
We can do this! Some days will be easier than others. Striving to improve our water consumption is a great start in the right direction. Stay active and stay hydrated!
If you have a history of kidney disease, congestive heart failure, or liver disease, you may have been told to limit your fluids, so please check with your healthcare provider before increasing the amount you are drinking.
Thanks for reading!