Did you know that the human body is made up of more than two-thirds water? Every cell in your body requires water. Just a few of the benefits of drinking enough water are:
- Clear, smooth skin
- Proper kidney function
- Clear thinking
- Blood pressure regulation
- Properly lubricated joints and muscles
- Prevents constipation
- Protects organs and tissues
- Carries nutrients and oxygen into cells
- Maintains moisture levels in tissues of the mouth, eyes, nasal passages
- Regulates body temperature
Unfortunately, many of us don’t drink enough water to keep our body functioning optimally, and we experience dehydration at some level. As we head toward midsummer and peak temperatures, it is even more important to make sure that you drink enough water throughout the day. Even mild dehydration can have negative effects. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you may be dehydrated:
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Bloating (retaining water)
- Sticky or dry mouth
- Dry skin
- Irritability or confusion
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Dark colored urine
- Lack of energy
Severe dehydration can lead to serious health consequences, but so can consuming too much water (although this is fairly difficult to do). So how much is the right amount? There are many different opinions on the subject, but my advice is to drink enough water so that you need to urinate at least every 3 hours. Your urine should be a pale yellow color, unless you consume vitamins or medicines that affect the color of your urine. You shouldn’t wait until you feel very thirsty, and it is best to drink water in smaller amounts throughout the day rather than drinking large volumes all at once. If you struggle with the taste (or lack of taste) of water, try adding some fresh fruit slices to give it some flavor, or look for “Spa Water” recipes online. Avoid using artificially sweetened drink powders, as they not only will contribute to dehydration, but also contain harmful chemicals. Also bear in mind that other beverages such as coffee, caffeinated teas, and any carbonated or sugary drinks will require the intake of additional water in order to properly flush the tissues after consuming them. If you don’t currently drink a lot of water, increase your intake gradually. While you may find that you make more frequent trips to the bathroom at first, this will diminish as your hydration levels normalize. The body was designed to use water for all of its functions, so treat it well and it will reward you in return!
For more information and to contact Juli Madacey please see her website: www.evexiahealth.com