Chances are, you may not be providing your body enough of this vital resource. About 75 percent of Americans are finding themselves suffering from chronic dehydration and the effects of denying your body this essential fuel source can cause serious harm.
Are you Dehydrated?
There are different types of dehydration and can range from mild to severe.
Mild dehydration can consist of headaches, dry mouth, feeling lightheaded, and even muscle cramps.
Severe dehydration can be extremely dangerous and signs to look for consist of irritability, racing heart, confusion, low blood pressure or even resulting in someone becoming unconscious.
Although these symptoms are severe, it does not compare to what the long term damage can result in. For someone who are constantly allowing their bodies to be depleted of water, one could suffer from trouble with organs, kidney stones, and possibly damage to the joints and muscles.
How to keep yourself hydrated
There are many water sources outside of just drinking water to allow yourself the chance to stay properly hydrated. What some may not know is that 20 percent of your water intake should occur from eating. Your water intake could be consumed through foods like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers and even celery.
Believe it or not; coffee!
For the coffee lovers out there and for those who rely on that to help start your day, it also provides that vital water source to jump start your body. Studies show 8 oz of coffee is equivalent to 4 oz of water!
Coconut water which also contains a great deal of potassium is a wonderful course to help regulate the fluids in your body. Another great source to keep the water flowing is vegetable juice. This juice not only contains essential nutrients in regards to one’s vegetable intake but also a great way to keep the body hydrated!
Staying hydrated:
How does one stay hydrated? Your body goes through many changes whether it be a sickness, exercise, sweating, change in hormones due to pregnancy or many other factors, so how does one know how to adjust their water intake?
Many studies say to aim for 8 glasses of water a day but that may not be enough for some due to their endeavors throughout the day. Always listen to your body and stay in tune with what it’s telling you!
Our Atlanta chiropractors want you to know not to wait until you’re thirsty to drink, listen to your body and adjust to your needs. For further information contact us at (404) 889-8828 to discuss how to keep yourself hydrated or to make an appointment for a consultation.