Are You Drinking Enough?
Water has been described as ‘the cheapest form of medicine’. Quite a bold statement, we know, but when you understand the integral part water plays within your body, the idea doesn’t seem too farfetched.
Did you know that your body is made up of 60% water? Every cell, tissue and organ has a water component to it and is essential to keep you healthy. For example, your bones are made of 25% water, your muscles and brain 75% water, and your blood that transports all the oxygen and nutrients around your body is 82% water. With such a huge role to play, you can imagine that if your body isn’t getting enough water, it will start to struggle, and that’s when symptoms can creep in. Those recurring headaches, lack of energy, mood changes and aches and pains could all be attributed to dehydration.
You can liken it to that trusty house plant. You will soon know if it needs water because the leaves start to droop, and the luscious green colour becomes less vibrant. But as soon as you water it, with a little time, it will breathe a sigh of relief and spring back to life. And your body does a similar thing.
We know it can get confusing, however. So, if you are unsure about how much to drink, what counts and how to make it work for you, we’ve answered the most frequent questions below to get you on the right path:
1. How much water do I need?
You may have heard about the 2-litre rule when it comes to water. However, this may not be appropriate for everyone. You may need more or less water based on your body size, the amount of movement you do, the heat exposure and other factors like health conditions. A simple way to estimate your hydration is by observing the colour of your urine. If it is darker than pale yellow, you need to rehydrate. Also, pay attention to other signs of dehydration, some of which have been described above.
2. Do teas and coffees count?
There has been confusion over whether teas and coffees contribute to hydration levels due to the caffeine. Research is highlighting that caffeine may have the potential to be a very mild diuretic, which means it pulls water out of your system. However, they have found that it is not significant enough to cause dehydration, so drinking teas and coffees contribute to your daily water intake. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of drinking too much caffeine. However, as it is a stimulant to the body, it can lead to issues like poor sleep if consumed in excess.
3. I don’t like water; what else can I drink?
If you don’t like the taste of water, how about infusing it? Adding a slice of orange, lemon, lime, or some fresh herbs such as mint can give it a kick that will keep your taste buds happy and encourage you to drink more. Of course, keeping your drinks as natural as possible will be the best for you. Keep in mind that you can get water from food too. Nutritious goodies such as lettuce, leafy greens, cucumber, celery, berries and melon are all water-rich.
We know it sounds simple, but the simple things make the most significant difference over time.
A great way to stay hydrated during the day is to keep a water bottle by your side as a reminder and sip away. Not only will staying hydrated encourage you to get up and go to the toilet more, which is extra movement and a bonus for the health of your spine, but it will also nourish your joints and discs of your spine, which is a fantastic way to support your chiropractic journey and long-term health.
Best days ahead, with love
Robert Firth
References:
1. The National Academy of Sciences. Dietary References Intakes for Water, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulfate. https://www.nap.edu/read/10925/chapter/6#102
2. Maughan RJ, Watson P, Cordery PA, Walsh NP, Oliver SJ, Dolci A, Rodriguez-Sanchez N, Galloway SD. A randomized trial to assess the potential of different beverages to affect hydration status: development of a beverage hydration index. Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Mar;103(3):717-23. DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.115.114769.
The content of this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.