Dehydration occurs when the amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount being taken in.
Similar to planet earth, the human body is, on average, made up of about 75 percent water. Water is a critical element of the body, and adequate hydration is a must to allow the body to function according to MedicineNet.com.
When dehydrated, the body will begin to ration water. Symptoms of chronic dehydration will begin to appear when the body loses as little as two to three percent of total body water. The average adult loses about 10 cups of water every day, simply by breathing, sweating, urinating and eliminating waste, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Researchers also estimate that 50 to 75 percent of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration and don’t realize it. This is partly because the symptoms of chronic dehydration are often mistaken for illness.
Signs and Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- High blood pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Acid-alkaline Imbalance
- Digestive disorders
- Asthma and allergies
- Weight Gain
- Skin Disorders
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Bladder or kidney problems
- Premature aging
Monitor your fluid loss during hot weather, illness or exercise, and drink enough liquids to replace what you lose. Reap the following benefits of drinking water daily.
10 Benefits of Drinking Water Daily
- Provides energy
- Aides in digestion and nutrient absorption
- Transports substances and aids detoxification
- Enhances immunity and disease prevention
- Lubricates joints
- Vital for brain function
- Improves circulation and heart health
- Keeps skin and eyes healthy
- Helps normalize hormones
- Improves sleep and reduces stress
To learn more about the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging Inc., call 814-765-2696 or 1-800-225-8571. Programs and services of the agency are funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging Inc., Mature Resources Foundation, and local and consumer contributions.