The Importance of Hydration
Water makes up between 50-70% of the body dependent on age and gender but everyone depends upon water to survive!
Symptoms of dehydration
- Thirst / Dry Mouth
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Headaches
- Darker Urine and less regularity
- Lack of Concentration
Thirst - When you are dehydrated one of the earliest symptoms is becoming thirsty with possible dry mouth and lips. This is a useful indicator that you need to drink some water, however the average person is usually mildly dehydrated by the time you start to notice.
Mental – Hydration can improve many aspects of the human bodies functionality but specifically focusing on mental well being, benefits include; visual vigilance , fatigue levels , short term memory and concentration levels.
Skin - Dehydration may result in dry skin , wrinkles , darker under eye skin. It can make you more susceptible to problems such as eczema, psoriasis. discoloration and even premature wrinkling. Drinking the recommended amount of water can result in smoother wrinkle free skin , lowers the chance of acne breakouts and flushes toxins out.
Organs - Water plays a crucial role in transporting nutrients and waste products between our major organs and allowing the body to regulate its temperature.
Weight loss – Firstly Water has no calories!! It can increase energy levels and importantly for weight loss it increases your metabolism allowing your body to burn more fat.
Physically – Studies show that even being 1% dehydrated can cause around a 10% decrease in physical performance. Therefore it is important to stay on top of your hydration especially if you have a more active lifestyle.
How to stay hydrated
- Drink between 2-3 litres of water throughout the day
- Include more fruit and vegetables in your diet
- Keep a water bottle with you where possible
- Drink before you feel thirsty
- Have a glass of water before each meal
Track your water to make sure your getting the recommended daily amount.