Water is essential to our body’s functions. It keeps our organs functioning correctly, helps regulate our body temperature and aids in digestion. Despite this vital role, many of us do not drink enough water.
Often, we may not even realize that our bodies are dehydrated. Here are the top signs you should be drinking more water.
1. You Feel Thirsty
The most obvious sign you need to drink more water is that you feel thirsty. If you’re thirstier than normal, it’s a good indication you need to hydrate your body.
Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and keep a water bottle with you at all times.
2. Your Urine is Dark Colored
Another sign that you need to drink more water is that your urine is dark-colored. Properly hydrated individuals have urine that is a pale yellow or clear color. When you’re dehydrated, your urine will be a deep yellow or amber color.
If this is the case for you, drink more water until your urine is a pale yellow color.
3. You Feel Tired or Lethargic
When you’re dehydrated, your body has to work harder to perform everyday activities. This can lead to feelings of fatigue and lethargy. If you’re feeling tired, try drinking a glass of water. You’ll likely feel more alert and energetic as a result.
4. You Have a Headache
Dehydration can cause headaches or migraines. It’s essential to drink water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. If you’re experiencing a headache, try drinking water instead of medicine. It’s possible that your headache is a result of dehydration.
5. Your Skin is Dry
Drinking enough water can help keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant. When you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dry, flaky, and prone to wrinkles. Make sure you’re drinking enough water each day to keep your skin healthy and moisturized.
6. You’re Constipated
If you’re not drinking enough water, your body may have trouble moving waste through your digestive system. This can lead to constipation. Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet can alleviate constipation and promote healthy bowel function.
7. You Feel Hungry
Dehydration can cause you to feel hungry, even if you’ve recently eaten. This is because your body can sometimes confuse thirst for hunger. If you’re feeling hungry between meals, try drinking a glass of water to see if it satiates your cravings.
8. You’re Not Sweating
When you’re not drinking enough water, your body may try to conserve fluids by sweating less. This can cause you to feel overheated and cause your body to become dehydrated.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
9. Your Breath is Bad
When you’re dehydrated, your body does not produce as much saliva. This can cause dry mouth and bad breath. Drinking enough water can help promote saliva production, which can prevent bad breath.
10. You’re Not Concentrating Well
Water is essential to maintain brain function. When you’re dehydrated, your brain may not be functioning at its best. This can make it difficult to concentrate, remember things, and perform well on tasks.
Drinking enough water each day can help improve cognitive function and boost your productivity.