Every system in your body depends on water to function and when you are dehydrated you definitely feel it.
- Water is essential to your body’s temperature regulation, keeping it cool through perspiration.
- Water flushes out toxins and wastes.
- Water is a major component of blood which carries nutrients and oxygen to and from all cells.
- Water provides a moist environment for all body tissues. It is the major component of saliva and mucous which lubricates the membranes that line our digestive system beginning with the mouth. Mucous membranes in the nose and eyes function better when well hydrated.
- Water cushions joints and protects tissues and organs like the brain from shock and damage.
- Water helps maintain a healthy weight. It is hard to distinguish between hunger and thirst. If you feel hungry, drink some water first and then reassess your hunger status.
Symptoms of dehydration:
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth and swollen tongue
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Palpitations (feeling that the heart is jumping or pounding)
- Confusion
- Sluggishness fainting
- Fainting
- Inability to sweat
- Decreased urine output