In the hot summer months, people everywhere are at a higher risk of dehydration. When you do not drink enough fluids and your body does not get enough water and electrolytes, your blood pressure can drop, your limps can go numb, and in the most severe cases, The Rehydration Project says you can actually die. In even minor cases of dehydration, your driving can be compromised, your workouts less effective, and your day less productive, says CNN Health.
This is why dehydration must be taken very seriously. But how do you know if you are dehydrated? Continue reading to learn the symptoms of dehydration. You might be surprised by some of them!
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1. Dark urine. According to The Water Cure, one of the best and easiest ways to monitor your hydration is by checking your urine. Clear urine means you are in the clear. But if your urine is yellow, orange, or dark-colored, you should grab a glass of water.
2. Sugar cravings. If you are feeling hungry between meals or after exercising, you may be dehydrated. CNN Health explains craving carbs or sugar can actually be a sign of dehydration, not hunger.
3. Dizziness. The Rehydration Project explains that if you feel dizzy, especially when you stand, you may be dehydrated. This is because dehydration leads to orthostatic hypotension, in which a person's blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing. This can be very dangerous and lead to fainting or other injuries related to falling.
4. Poor mood and concentration. If you feel cranky or irritated, or have trouble concentrating or focusing, then you may be in need of a tall glass of water. CNN Health says being just 1 per cent dehydrated can effect your mood and ability to concentrate.
5. Bad breath. An article on CNN Health explains that when you are dehydrated, you also suffer from decreased saliva. Because saliva is naturally anti-bacterial, when you do not produce enough saliva, your mouth becomes a breeding ground for nasty smelling bacteria.
6. Headache. When you do not have enough water, the body's serotonin levels and blood vessels in the brain are effected. CNN Health says dehydration can cause all kinds of headaches from dull aches to full blown migraines. You may be surprised that drinking a glass of water or eating a bit of water-rich fruit can cure a headache in no time.
7. Bloated stomach. According to The Rehydration Project, a bloated stomach, as well as sunken, dry eyes and severe muscle cramps, is a sign of moderate to severe dehydration.
8. Dry, inelastic skin. Mayo Clinic says if you pinch your skin and it does not bounce back but stays folded, then you are likely dehydrated.
Remember to always carry water with you and try your best to drink 3 liters (13 cups or 101 ounces) of water for men and 2.2 liters (9 cups or 74 ounces) of water for women every day, as recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine.
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If you have any of the above symptoms, drink cool water and avoid fruit juices, carbonated beverages, and coffee that can make you even more dehydrated. Make sure your friends and family know the dangers and symptoms of dehydration! SHARE this article on social media and tell us your dehydration stories!