How much water is enough? It is a simple question with no definite answer. Over the years, studies have produced varying recommendations on how much water one should consume for the body to function optimally. Water is the principal chemical component making up 60% of the body weight. While there is no single formula for everyone, it is important to stay hydrated most of the time. Therefore, it begs, do you drink enough water?
The body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue, and organ depends on water to function properly. In addition, water helps get rid of toxins through urination and bowel movements. It also helps to keep body temperature normal. It also helps protect sensitive tissues and lubricate and cushion the joints.
A normal human being loses water through breath, perspiration, and urine. For the body to function, one must replenish its water supply by consuming water and foods that contain water. Men should consume at least 3.7 liters of fluids a day, while women should consume at least 2.7 liters, which can come from water or other beverages and food.
Do You Drink Enough Water?
Persistent Fatigue
If you constantly feel sluggish with no energy to do even the basic functions, it might be a sign you need to drink more water. Fluid loss without sufficient replenishment through drinking enough water results in a decrease in blood volume. This puts pressure on the heart to deliver oxygen and nutrients to organs and muscles.
Increased pressure on the heart results in fatigue and low energy as the body struggles to function without enough water. So do you drink enough water? It is likely to be the persistent question if you visit a doctor while feeling sluggish and tired most of the time despite getting enough sleep.
Bad Breath
Not drinking enough water inhibits the production of enough saliva, which helps in rinsing bacteria in the mouth and keeps the teeth and gums healthy. Limited saliva production results in the buildup of bacteria in the tongue, teeth, and gums, resulting in bad breath.
If you brush your teeth regularly and maintain good oral hygiene yet still struggle with bad breath, it could be a sign, you are not drinking enough water.
Constantly Sick
Water is one of the most important fluids that helps get rid of toxins from the body through urine and sweat. It also helps strengthen the immune system, averting the risk of sickness. If you constantly feel sick and develop a bacterial infection, it could be a sign of bacteria building up in the body.
You should drink more water to keep the body free of toxins and bacteria. However, the lack of water would also cause fatigue which is a sign of weakened immunity.
Increased Constipation
If you frequently feel constipated, it could indicate you are not drinking enough water. Good digestion and optimal bowel movements are only made possible by water which keeps the stool soft to move easily through the digestive tract.
If you fail to drink enough water, the body may pull water from the stool to compensate for fluid loss. The net result is a firmer stool that is difficult to pass, leading to constipation. Drinking water can help loosen them.
Dull Skin
Dry and ashy skin is a sign that someone is not drinking enough water. Water helps hydrate and plump the skin cells to make them look brighter, more vibrant, and more youthful. In some cases, water helps reduce acne and skin problems by flushing toxins and bacteria from the body.
Do You Drink Enough Water
If you constantly struggle with health problems due to a buildup of toxins and bacteria in the body, it could be a sign you are not drinking enough water. Six to eight glasses are important for the body to function optimally and keep many medical conditions at bay.
