Dehydration is a common condition that occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. It can happen to anyone, but it is particularly common among older adults and athletes. Here are five reasons why we get dehydrated and what you can do to prevent it.
Not drinking enough water: The most obvious reason for dehydration is not drinking enough water. The human body is made up of 60% water and it is essential to keep it hydrated to function properly. When you don’t drink enough water, your body can’t perform at its best.
Sweating: Sweating is the body’s way of regulating temperature and it can cause dehydration. When you sweat, you lose fluids and electrolytes, which are essential for maintaining proper hydration. Athletes and people who work out regularly are at a higher risk of dehydration due to sweating.
Illness: Certain illnesses can cause dehydration. For example, if you have diarrhea or vomiting, your body loses a lot of fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Additionally, some medications can cause dehydration as a side effect.
High temperatures: High temperatures can cause dehydration because the body needs to work harder to regulate its temperature. When it’s hot outside, your body sweats more, which can lead to dehydration.
Alcohol consumption: Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can cause you to lose fluids and become dehydrated. Drinking too much alcohol can also make you feel dehydrated the next day.
Preventing dehydration is easy, all you have to do is drink enough water, and replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating. If you are feeling dehydrated or have symptoms like dry mouth, dark yellow urine, or dizziness, it is important to seek medical attention.
You can also try different methods to stay hydrated like carrying a water bottle with you, drinking water before, during and after meals, and getting IV Therapy at Premier IV & Wellness. It is also a good idea to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables which are high in water content.
In conclusion, dehydration is a common condition that can happen to anyone. However, by understanding the reasons why we get dehydrated and taking steps to prevent it, you can stay healthy and hydrated.