Water is not just the magic elixir of life, it’s absolutely essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. Unfortunately, many of us underestimate the significance of staying adequately hydrated and becoming dehydrated. While you can live for up to 3 weeks in some cases, without food, you can only live for about 3 days without water.
Dehydration occurs when our bodies lose more fluids than we take in, leading to an imbalance that can adversely affect our health. So let’s talk about dehydration, its causes, signs, and most importantly, its impact on our overall well-being.
Maybe if you understand the importance of hydration, you will take proactive steps to maintain your bodies’ fluid balance and safeguard your health. I know I really changed my attention to it after we started this journey with the EESystem and started focusing more clearly on what goes into my body.
Every single system in your body operates better with plenty of water. Imagine for a moment the tires on your car all went flat. Most people wouldn’t dream of even trying to drive their cars any distance without getting the tires reinflated first. Not only would you not get anywhere quickly but it would likely damage your car in numerous ways if you continued to do it regularly. Same with your body.
Now consider that every single molecule of anything that gets into your body must have a pathway out unless it is a nutrient that becomes part of your body. There are only so many ways back out of the body. Sweat, needs water, poo, needs water, breath, releases water vapor, pee, obviously water, and tears, all water.
If you are dehydrated then none of the exit strategies for waste are viable escape routes for stuff that needs to get out. So basically, if you are dehydrated you really are full of sh*t, trash, waste, rubbish, toxins, etc. that can’t find a way out!!
The Causes and Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration can result from various factors, including inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, physical activity, illness, and certain medications, especially pain meds. There are also environmental factors that should be taken into account such as heat, humidity & altitude.
Sometimes, you may not even realize you’re becoming dehydrated. Think about the last time you traveled. Was it by plane or car? Many people may attempt to limit how much they drink when driving in order to avoid making too many ‘pit’ stops. When traveling by air, the relative humidity in an aircraft is much lower than most people realize or are used to. It’s important to hydrate well before AND after trips to help reduce the risk of this type of dehydration. Understanding the causes is crucial in identifying the signs of dehydration.
5 common signs of dehydration include:
- increased thirst
- dry mouth
- Fatigue
- dizziness
- dark-colored urine
Truthfully, some experts say, once you are thirsty you are already significantly dehydrated!! It reminds me of what my dad used to say about my car. “If the “idiot” light comes on it might already be too late!
Signs of severe dehydration can manifest as:
- dehydration headaches
- muscle cramps
- dry skin
- rapid heartbeat.
Recognizing these signs can help us take prompt action to rehydrate and prevent further complications.
The Impact of Dehydration on Physical Health
Proper hydration is essential for optimal physical health. When we don’t consume enough water, our bodies struggle to carry out vital functions including our ability to get quality sleep.
Decrease in Blood Volume
Dehydration can lead to a decrease in blood volume, affecting blood pressure regulation and reducing blood flow to organs and tissues. Consequently, this can impair organ function, potentially leading to serious complications such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and constipation.
Furthermore, dehydration can negatively impact our cardiovascular system. The heart has to work harder to pump blood when there is a reduced blood volume, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems. I always say, it’s easier to move blood, not mud! So drink more water!
Thermoregulation
Dehydration can also impede thermoregulation, making it harder for our bodies to cool down in hot weather, which may result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Some folks think drinking sodas, beer, teas, juices, and other beverages means they are hydrated, but that’s a bit of a mistake.
It is much harder for the body to use those drinks because they have to be processed by several organs first! All those other beverages have to be filtered, cleansed and then absorbed into the bloodstream. But water? The body can use that right away!
The Impact of Dehydration on Mental and Cognitive Health
While the physical effects of dehydration are significant, its impact on mental and cognitive health should not be underestimated. Research has shown that even mild dehydration can affect mood, cognitive function, and overall brain performance.
Studies indicate that dehydration can impair short-term memory, attention, and psychomotor skills. It can also lead to increased feelings of anxiety, confusion, and fatigue.
One thing I have noticed, when my body is detoxing and I haven’t had a detox bath in a while, I have gotten more out of sorts and even a bit emotional. Water helps whether you are drinking it or bathing in it!
Dehydration can further exacerbate existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, adequate hydration is crucial for the proper functioning of the brain and the production of neurotransmitters, which play a vital role in regulating our mood and emotions. Thus, maintaining proper hydration levels is crucial for preserving optimal mental well-being.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
Now that we understand the importance of hydration, let’s explore some practical tips to help us stay properly hydrated:
- Drink water regularly: Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day as a minimum, Some experts recommend ½ oz for every lb of body weight per day. Increase intake during hot weather, increased sun exposure and physical activity.
- Eat water-rich foods: Include fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and citrus fruits, in your diet. The good news is that you will increase your nutrient intake while getting your water needs met!
- Limit alcohol and caffeinated beverages: These can contribute to dehydration, so consume them in moderation and balance them with water.
- Set reminders: Use phone apps or alarms to remind yourself to drink water at regular intervals.
- Carry a water bottle: Keep a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go to make hydration convenient and accessible.
- Monitor urine color: One of the best measures of hydration is pale yellow or almost clear urine. Darker colors suggest the need for more fluids. In most cases clear urine is a sign that you are well hydrated but be careful you are not overhydrated, though it is rare.
Dehydration is a condition that should not be taken lightly, as it can have significant consequences for our health. By recognizing the causes and signs of dehydration, understanding its impact on physical and mental well-being, we can adopt proactive hydration habits.
We can also ensure that our bodies receive the water they need to function optimally. Remember, staying hydrated is not just a choice; it’s a vital aspect of maintaining a healthy and thriving life.
While the EES helps recharge your body, the crystalline structures inside the cells that hold and conduct the electricity your body needs to operate, require water to maintain the charge.
So drink up when you come for your scalar session!
