Many people believe they are drinking enough water, but if they spend most of the day with a cup of coffee, they are likely more dehydrated than they realise.
It is a known fact that the human body is approximately 70% water, and daily activities cause a loss of up to two and a half litres of it. Reportedly, even breathing contributes significantly to fluid loss, with around half a litre exhaled each day. Here are some signs that can help you understand that you are dehydrated and the body needs water.
If you often feel thirsty and suffer from chapped lips
One of the common signs of dehydration is feeling thirsty, which often comes with a dry mouth. This is usually the first indication that the body needs water. A dry mouth not only signals a lack of fluids but also suggests that the immune system is weakening. When the oral mucosa, an important immune defence, becomes weakened due to a dry mouth, it increases susceptibility to infections. If drinking water is difficult, rinsing the mouth with a small amount of liquid can help.
Bad breath is a clear sign of hydration
Water is important for producing saliva and helps to wash away bacteria, keeping teeth and gums healthy. Without enough water, saliva production decreases, allowing bacteria to accumulate on the tongue, teeth, and gums, which leads to bad breath.
Even with good oral hygiene, persistent bad breath might indicate insufficient water intake.
Constipation is not only from the gut but can be due to dehydration as well
Staying well-hydrated helps digestion and ensures regular bowel movements by keeping stools soft and easy to pass. Insufficient water intake can cause the body to draw water from the stool to make up for fluid loss, resulting in harder, firmer stools that are difficult to pass.
Dull and dry skin
If you drink water regularly it will show on your skin as well. Water hydrates and plumps skin cells, making the skin appear brighter, more vibrant, and youthful. Without having enough water, skin loses its plumpness and elasticity. Resulting in dryness, flakiness, fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
Sweet tooth goes wild
Dehydration hampers the body’s strength to enter glucose stores which often leads to cravings for sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods. Unexpected and intense cravings for sweets such as chocolate, doughnuts, cookies, and candies may signal a need for water rather than food.
If you find yourself craving sugar or feeling hungry shortly after eating, try drinking more water to rehydrate and curb these cravings.
