It’s crucial you take in enough water on a daily basis. But what happens when you don’t? Check out five possible symptoms and complications, from mild to severe.
You probably know that water is très important for all healthy life function. In fact, about 60% of your body is made up of water. For it to continue to function properly, it’s crucial that you consume enough water on a daily basis. “Hydration is key to helping all the organs in our system work efficiently,” says Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, a general physician at Holistic Healthcare Centre in Delhi.
Just as hydration helps everything run smoothly, dehydration — which occurs when you’re taking in less fluid than you’re using or losing — can lead to all sorts of breakdowns in bodily processes. So, how much should you be drinking? Anupam Dey, a Kolkata-based dietician, says the average person should drink about two litres of water a day, and more in high temperatures or if you’re particularly active. “Dehydration can be caused by drinking less than that, but also by things like diarrhea, vomiting, fevers, excessive sweating, and increased urination,” says Dey.
But what actually happens to your body when you reach the point of dehydration? Read on for five possible symptoms and complications:
You’re constipated
An imbalance of fluids can affect your digestive system. “We tend to think of fibre as the primary solution to constipation, but water is equally important. Fibre helps to pull out toxins in the gut system, but those toxins can’t exit our system without being flushed out, and for that we need water,” says Dey.
Your skin gets irritated
If your body isn’t getting enough water, the effects can also show on your skin. Dr Aggarwal says dry skin, which lacks oil, is different from dehydrated skin, which lacks water. However, there are some similar symptoms, particularly flakiness, itchiness, sensitivity, tightness, and dullness. According to Dr Aggarwal, dehydrated skin can also be prone to breakouts.
Disclaimer: All information, data and material has been sourced from multiple authors and is for general information and educational purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor.
The views and nutritional advice expressed are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
