Our bodies are 60 percent water and when we’re dehydrated, we know it. We feel thirst and fatigue. Sometimes we get headaches or experience lightheadedness. When we don’t drink enough water, it’s obvious! However, staying hydrated is more than just a matter of comfort – it’s crucial for our health and well-being.
Hydration has more to do than just your water intake. Hydration is about the delicate balance of minerals and electrolytes. Here’s a quick refresher on electrolytes. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that dissolve in water and conduct electricity. Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium are the primary electrolytes in the body. They help regulate nerve and muscle function, maintain acid-base balance, and ensure proper hydration levels. When we sweat, we don’t just lose water but we also lose electrolytes, namely sodium and potassium. Simply drinking water may not always be enough to stay optimally hydrated, especially during hot summer days or intense workouts. Replenishing electrolytes becomes crucial to maintaining proper hydration levels.
Water is essential for various biochemical reactions and processes. When we have symptoms like headaches, lightheadedness, and fatigue our body is signaling to something more at a cellular and systematic level.
Cellular shrinkage: When we’re dehydrated our cells become dehydrated. Our cells shrink from the loss of intracellular fluid, which affects their structural integrity and can impair their ability to carry out vital functions.
Impaired Nutrient Transport: Water transports nutrients to our cells and the removal of waste products. Dehydration slows down this process, which can allow toxins to build up and decrease cellular metabolism.
Organs: Dehydration takes a toll on the heart, kidneys, digestive system, and brain. When we’re dehydrated, our blood volume is reduced, which strains the cardiovascular system and increases the risk of heart-related issues, like palpitations and fainting. The kidneys and digestive system rely on adequate water intake to filter waste products. Dehydration can increase our risk of infections and constipation. Lastly, mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, which is why we might struggle to concentrate or have difficulty with our memory and mood when we’re dehydrated.
Linda’s List:
- Incorporate electrolytes in your diet by using Himalayan pink salt or LMNT
- Consider IV Therapy, especially if you’re active, to replenish, energize, and hydrate
- Supplement with Mineral Blu and Vitamin K
