Water is life. It’s a simple truth we often overlook until we feel the discomfort of dehydration. But did you know that by the time we feel thirsty, our body is already dehydrated?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in. This may not sound like a huge problem, but it affects more than you may realize.
Dehydration disrupts the delicate balance that keep you functioning at your best. From the beating of your heart to the firing of neurons in your brain, water is the unsung hero behind the scenes. So, let’s explore the effects of dehydration on both the body and brain and consider practical tips on how to stay adequately hydrated.
The Body Under Siege
Every day, your body loses water through sweat, urine and even breathing. On average, adults lose around three litres of water daily. This amount increases with physical activity or in hotter climates. When these losses aren’t adequately replenished, dehydration sets in, and your body is the first to sound the alarm.
You might notice a dry mouth, fatigue or a sudden loss of skin elasticity. These are just some of the early signs. As dehydration progresses, the effects become more serious.
Your kidneys, which depend on water to filter waste from your blood, may struggle, increasing the risk of kidney stones or urinary tract infections. Your heart feels the strain as blood volume drops, forcing it to work harder to circulate blood. Dehydration can disrupt your body’s ability to regulate temperature, potentially leading to overheating or even heatstroke. Your digestive system suffers too, because water is crucial for breaking down food and preventing constipation. Even your skin takes a hit, appearing dull and less resilient.
Dehydration can be even more detrimental for those who are physically active. It reduces blood flow to muscles which causes cramps and decreased strength. Research shows that losing just 2% of your body weight in water can impair physical performance by up to 20%, turning a routine workout into a gruelling challenge.
In fact, water plays a vital role in every bodily function. Your body won’t last more than three days without water, but it can survive two to three months on water alone!
The Brain in a Fog
The impact of dehydration doesn’t stop at the physical. Your brain, which is about 75% water, is highly sensitive to hydration levels. That’s because water is required for every chemical reaction in the brain. It helps produce and balance hormones, protects the brain and spinal cord from injury, creates new neurons, maintains overall cellular brain health, flushes out metabolic waste that occurs in the brain and ensures there is healthy blood flow to the brain so it can get enough oxygen and nutrients.
It’s no wonder that without enough water, the brain will be negatively affected. Even mild dehydration can cause brain cells to shrivel up and shrink, reducing brain volume and causing:
• Cloudy thinking;
• Impaired memory;
• Low mood;
• Increased anxiety;
• Reduced concentration;
• Mental fatigue;
• Dizziness;
• Headaches; and
• Reduced cognitive function.
So, the bottom line? Staying hydrated is crucial for both your body and brain!
When you prioritize hydration, you don’t just quench your thirst—you support your body’s vital systems and boost your overall well-being as well. That’s because hydration is a cornerstone of health. Without enough water, our bodies and minds simply can’t function at their best.
So, the next time you reach for a glass of water, know that you’re not just drinking— you’re fuelling your life.
Kelly Aiello, rhn is one of our nutritionists and her mission is simple: to help people live a happier, healthier life. As a registered holistic nutritionist (RHN) and Amen Clinics Certified Brain Health Coach, Kelly brings a wealth of expertise in holistic and alternative health.
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