When we want to maintain good health, we take into account aspects such as proper nutrition and physical exercise, but we often leave aside the importance of proper hydration.
The body is made up of 80% water, it is a basic element for the proper functioning of any person, since, without good hydration, the body’s systems fail and various health problems can develop.
With water, the body maintains the right temperature, waste and toxins produced by the organs are eliminated naturally, and the digestive process develops correctly. When urinating, sweating or even breathing, water is constantly lost, so it is important to recover that fluid that is lost.
Benefits of good hydration:
There are many benefits that are obtained by having good hydration and they range from an incredible appearance of the skin and external organs to the proper functioning of the internal ones. Here are some of the great benefits you can get from incorporating this healthy habit.
- Water carries and distributes essential vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds throughout the body.
- It acts as a lubricant in the joints, reducing friction between cartilage and other tissues.
- It achieves proper functioning of the kidneys and urinary system.
- Regulates stomach acidity and body temperature.
- It allows blood pressure to be maintained.
- Maintains a good functioning metabolism.
- It improves digestion and breathing, as well as bodily reactions.
- Achieves a good appearance of the skin.
Hydration during physical activity:
If staying hydrated daily is a fundamental habit in any human being, in the case of those who practice some physical activity even more. Regardless, whether you’re a high-performance athlete or just exercising for fun, it’s important to stay hydrated.
Each person is different, some sweat more than others, but one thing that is true is that, when doing strenuous exercise, the water lost through sweat is high and it is crucial not to wait until you are thirsty while doing physical activity, but rather, to stay hydrated before, during and after any physical exercise.
If you’re not hydrated, your body can’t function at its best. You may feel tired and have muscle cramps, dizziness, or other severe symptoms.
Signs of dehydration
Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluid than you consume. When the body doesn’t have enough water, it can’t function properly. Dehydration can range from mild to severe.
One way to know if you’re drinking enough is to trust your body: if you’re thirsty, you need to drink. If you are dehydrated you will feel bad. Dehydration can lead to a headache and make you feel tired, constipated and sick. It is also valuable to be aware of symptoms such as dry mouth, very dark urine, strong and fast heart rate and muscle cramps.
The first tip to avoid dehydration is not to wait until you are thirsty to drink liquids, specifically, water. Liquids should not only be reserved for meals, but should be drunk throughout the day, dividing the intake into different portions. Always having a thermos of water with you will help you not to forget to stay hydrated.
