1. You have a dry Mouth
There's nothing quite like the dryness of a parched mouth, but the solution goes beyond a simple sip. Delving into sugary drinks may provide momentary relief, yet the key lies in water's ability to lubricate mucus membranes, ensuring a lasting moist sensation in your mouth and throat.
2. You have dry skin
The body's largest organ, the skin, speaks volumes about its hydration levels. Dry skin, an early sign of dehydration, may lead to more severe issues. A lack of water means a lack of sweat, which leads to a body’s inability to wash away excess dirt and oil accumulated throughout the day. To maintain a radiant complexion and ward off breakouts, prioritize drinking more water.
3. You feel so thirsty
Thirst goes beyond a dry mouth, it's your body's cry for hydration. Anyone who’s ever had a hangover can tell you that, upon waking up, your body just can’t get enough water. Alcohol dehydrates the entire body, and drinking water sends ’YES PLEASE!’ signals to the brain until your fluid levels get back to baseline. Listen to what your body is telling you; it knows what it’s talking about!
4. Dry Eyes
Beyond the obvious, water intake affects more than your mouth and throat. Dry, bloodshot eyes are a consequence of dehydration, potentially harmful, especially for contact lens wearers.
5. You feel joint pain
Water, constituting about 80% of cartilage and spinal discs, acts as a vital shock absorber for your joints. Staying hydrated enables your body to absorb the impact of sudden movements, safeguarding against joint pain caused by activities like running, jumping, or awkward falls.
6. Your muscle mass shrinks
Muscles, too, rely heavily on water content. Less water in the body means less muscle mass. Engage in a hydration routine before, during, and after workouts to preserve muscle mass. Proper hydration ensures water reaches the essential areas, minimizing inflammation and soreness associated with exercise.
7. You stay sick longer
Drinking water allows your body to continuously flush out toxins. Your organs work to filter certain waste products like a machine, but if you don’t fuel the machine with water, it cannot work properly. Depriving your body of water forces organs to pull from stored areas, leading to prolonged illness and a cascade of health issues.
8. You feel fatigued
As we just mentioned, when a body is dehydrated it "borrows" water from your blood. A lack of properly hydrated blood leads to a lack of oxygen being brought throughout the body. Of course, a lack of oxygen leads to sleepiness and outright fatigue. A well-hydrated body maintains stamina, delaying the notorious 2 pm energy slump, with sustainable benefits that coffee alone cannot provide.
9. Thirst or Hunger? Dehydration's Misleading Signals
Dehydration can trick your body into thinking it needs food. Instead of reaching for unnecessary snacks, opt for water. However, eating food creates more work for your body, but hydration purifies organs, supplying the necessary fuel for your body's processes.
10. You experience digestive issues
Hydration isn't confined to the mouth and throat; it extends its influence throughout the digestive system. Proper hydration maintains stomach mucus, safeguarding against acid-related discomforts like heartburn and indigestion.
11. You seem to Age Prematurely
As we age, the body's natural water retention diminishes. Counteract premature aging by consciously increasing water intake. While external signs may be more obvious, the internal benefits safeguard against long-term damage.
12. Your Urine Color
If your urine is brown or dark orange, it's time to pay attention, because you're likely severely dehydrated. Urine naturally carries a yellow pigment. When you stay hydrated, your urine will be a light yellow, close-to-clear.
If you find yourself reading this and questioning your water intake, it's time to take action. Take a moment to listen to your body and pour that much-needed glass of water. Meeting or exceeding the recommended daily water intake is a small yet powerful step toward optimal health. Stay hydrated, stay vibrant!
