How many times have you been reminded to drink your water?  It is usually one of the first things a physician will ask if you seek medical attention for stomach problems, arthritic conditions, headaches and even skin conditions.  How much water do you drink a day?

On some level, we all understand that water is essential to life, not just for humans but all life, from plants to animals and beyond, but we still do not grasp the importance of consuming enough of it every day.

We do not have time; we don’t like the taste; it makes us have to use the washroom too often etc.  The revolution of portable refillable water bottles has certainly made drinking water trendier, and carrying around a colourful water bottle presents a picture of responsible water-drinking adults, but are we still consuming enough water to generate a healthy response?

Did you know that water makes up more than half your body weight?  Your body depends on water to survive.  Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work correctly. Water helps to maintain your body’s temperature, remove wastes, and lubricate your joints.  Even mild dehydration can affect your cognitive function and energy levels and lead to constipation.

You lose water every day when you go to the washroom, sweat or breath!   So daily replenishing is a must for a healthy equilibrium.

Signs of dehydration

Dehydration does not only occur on a blazing hot summer day. Many of us are slightly dehydrated every day but are not aware of it.  Check out the colour of your urine to indicate where you are on the dehydration spectrum. If it’s colourless or light yellow, you’re well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you may be dehydrated.  Other signs you may need a glass of water:

• Constipation
• Creaky joints
• Tiredness
• Lack of energy
• Brain fog
• Dry mouth
• Bad breath
• Dry or flushed skin
• Itchiness
• Muscle cramps
• Food cravings for sweets
• Headache
• Dizziness or light-headedness

Hydrate with electrolytes - Increasing your water intake is one of the key factors for good health.  But taking it one step further and hydrating with electrolytes also regulate the flow of fluid and salts inside and outside of your cells. This is key to ensuring you are well-hydrated.

 Electrolytes:

• Help regulate a variety of your body’s most essential functions, including sending signals throughout your body’s nervous system
• Help maintain a balanced pH and temperature so that your cells and organs are functioning optimally
• Support the digestive system through the opening and closing of channels that need an ionic balance
• Help your muscles contract and avoid cramping during activity
• Control the constant impulses in your body to keep your heart beating, lungs breathing, and brain functioning optimally
• Supports your immunity and return to health after being ill