All things Hydration
BY KAYLA KATSAMBIRIS, RN.
THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER
D
id you know that our bodies are made up of ap-
proximately 60% water? Water is vital to our body
processes and is essential to the functioning of our or-
gans. Some of the many roles of water in the body in-
clude lubricating joints, regulating body temperature,
converting food into energy, assisting in the absorp-
tion of nutrients and removing waste.
SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
T
here are multiple signs of dehydration, which may
include headache, lethargy, irritability, muscle
cramping, constipation, dry lips, dry skin, reduced
urine output or dark cultured urine. In severe cas-
es dehydration can lead to confusion, dizziness, low
blood pressure and rapid pulse, which require imme-
diate medical attention.
HOW MUCH?
T
here are differing opinions about how much wa-
ter a day we need to drink. The general consensus
is a minimum of 2 litres a day, others suggesting that
water intake requirements is largely dependent upon
the individual due to factors such as weight and ac-
tivity level. Either way, you should try to rely on your
body – particularly the sensation of thirst, as a guide
to your hydration levels. When you feel thirsty, this is
your body sending you a message that it needs more
water. Your body also sends you a message on how hy-
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