Did you know that by the time we feel thirsty, we’re often already dehydrated?

And since our fluid levels affect our ability to control our body temperature, pulse, blood pressure, digestion, mental focus and a millions of other functions, it’s something to take seriously.

Common Ways We Lose Water

There are many ways we lose water throughout the day. It’s important to be mindful of these to ensure you’re adequately replenishing your body with water.

• Perspiration (which increases dramatically when exercising)
• Urination (self-explanatory)
• Breathing (you expel a little water with every breath)
• Stress (impacts hormones that regulate fluid levels)
• Herbal supplements (particularly those used to combat fluid retention)
• Breastfeeding (breastfeeding requires an additional 2 cups of water per day)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (or other gastrointestinal upset)

The Top Signs of Dehydration

If you experience any of the following symptoms, dehydration may be playing a role:

1. Excessive thirst and dry mouth are usually the most obvious signs of dehydration and are signals that should not be ignored.
   
2. Dark urine is another sign of dehydration. When well-hydrated, your urine should be pale yellow.
   
3. Fatigue is a common symptom that has many different causes, but you may be surprised to hear that dehydration can be one.
   
4. Dry, flaky skin is a sign of long-term dehydration. Drinking plenty of water keeps the blood supply to your skin flowing, resulting in a healthy, vibrant complexion.
   
5. Headaches are another very common sign of dehydration, so try drinking a glass of water next time you feel one coming on.

When You’re Bored with Water…

It’s important to drink several glasses of water each day, but if drinking another glass sounds a little too flavorless, try adding more of these water-rich foods to your diet:

• Watermelon
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Oranges
• Cucumber
• Lettuce
• Broth
• Zucchini
• Celery
• Tomatoes

Hydrate for Health

Don’t underestimate the power of water. It’s essential to all of our body’s systems and drinking a glass is a super simple way to help them function properly and feel good. A good trick, fill up a water bottle and take it wherever you go.

Now if you’re thinking that sparkling, flavored waters are a good option too…think again. Some brands contain PFAS (which are manufactured chemicals) that accumulate in your body and create health issues like high cholesterol, cancer, thyroid issues, immune system problems, and low infant birth weights.

I don’t know about you, but think I’ll stick to plain ol’ water or herbal tea!

Making an effort to stay hydrated is soooo worth it. Yes, you’ll probably urinate more often, but here’s the thing…you want to because this is one of the ways your body gets rid of toxins. And drinking a glass of water 30 minutes prior to eating (rather than during your meal) also helps you eat less and better digest your food.

Have you had a glass of water recently? Go grab one now!