Do You have Everyday Dehydration Symptoms?
You may not realize it, but dehydration is a serious issue that can impact your body in so many ways. Even things that you thought were just normal (like getting tired after lunch) or lightheadedness can be caused by dehydration. So, let’s take a look at some common symptoms that are actually caused by everyday dehydration.
Understanding Dehydration
Our bodies are made up of approximately 60 percent water; many of our internal organs are composed of well over that amount. Even our bones are around 30 percent water! That’s how integral this element is to our bodies and lives. Not only does water make up a large percentage of our body weight, but it also helps regulate internal body temperature, metabolize food, flush waste, and lubricate joints. Water allows cells to grow and survive and carries oxygen throughout our bodies. This is why it is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking enough water and electrolytes. Unfortunately, staying hydrated is usually easier said than done–just ask the 75% of us Americans who are chronically dehydrated. (You can read more about this alarming statistic for adults in the United States…pretty daunting, right?)
So chances are unless you are actively making efforts to better hydrate yourself, you are probably in the majority of Americans who experience dehydration on a daily basis. So, aside from not drinking enough water, what does being dehydrated actually mean? Well, chronic dehydration is a condition that occurs when you lose more fluids than you take in. The most common cause of chronic or "everyday dehydration" is not drinking enough fluids or replenishing electrolytes.
Everyday Symptoms of Dehydration
Let’s take a closer look at everyday dehydration symptoms and see if any of these sound familiar to you.
- Confusion, poor judgment, and even irritability
If you're dehydrated, your brain might be confused. It can cause poor judgment and even irritability with people around you. That's because when you don't have enough water in your body (or enough electrolytes), the cells in your brain might not get enough oxygen-rich blood flow to work properly. And when this happens for long periods of time--like when you're constantly dehydrated from not drinking enough water--it can cause serious damage to those cells, which then affects how well they function later down the road (or more specifically: right now).
- Muscle cramps, spasms, and pain
You may be dehydrated if you have muscle cramps after exercising or playing sports. It's important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after strenuous activities because proper hydration helps the body function properly. Aside from water, be sure to replenish your electrolytes. Dehydration also causes your muscles to become fatigued more quickly than usual so they might feel sore afterward.
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
You may feel lightheaded and dizzy if you are dehydrated. If this happens to you, sit down and be sure to replenish your fluids as often as you can. This could be one of the biggest indicators that a person is dehydrated and needs water and essential nutrients for hydration.
- Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom of dehydration. But there are so many different types of headaches and causes of headaches, so it’s not always the best indicator for dehydration. Stress, poor sleep habits and high blood pressure can all lead to headaches that feel similar to those caused by dehydration. If you've got a headache and you're not sure if it's from being thirsty or something else entirely, try drinking some water with electrolytes--you might find that your symptoms improve.
- Fatigue or exhaustion
If you're feeling fatigued or exhausted, it may be due to dehydration. Fatigue is a common symptom of dehydration and can be caused by a lack of replenished fluids in the body. If you drink enough water and essential nutrients each day, your body will feel energized and refreshed. But if you don't drink enough water, then your energy levels will decrease and fatigue will set in. The best way to ensure you’re properly hydrating is by incorporating more water and electrolyte powder mixes into your daily routine. You will notice a difference almost immediately!
- Dry skin, lips, eyes, and mouth
When you're dehydrated your body is not getting enough water to function properly--and that includes keeping your skin soft and smooth. If you're experiencing this symptom it's time for a drink of some electrolyte-infused H2O.
- Brain fog and lack of focus
Yes, brain fog and lack of focus are common symptoms of chronic everyday dehydration. Dehydration is caused by a loss of water from the body that leads to a decrease in blood volume, which causes your heart to have to work harder and your circulation decreases. As a result, your brain will not receive enough oxygen, which can lead to impaired concentration and mild confusion. So if you are looking for some mental clarity from brain fog, try stepping up your hydration game.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, dehydration is not something that should be taken lightly. If you are experiencing any of these everyday dehydration symptoms, you might be surprised what a little water and Ultima Replenisher electrolytes can do. However, if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve over time, it's a good idea to check in with your doctor. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people can avoid the serious health risks associated with chronic dehydration.
