This may not come as a big shocker, but most people don’t drink enough water. Since the body is about 55-65% water, it requires continual replenishment to function optimally. Water keeps everything running smoothly, which is why dehydration can lead to a poorly functioning digestive system.
When it comes to how much water to drink on a daily basis, you can choose to follow a couple hydration rules, so to speak. Firstly, drinking ten to twelve 8oz glasses of water a day can keep your body hydrated; however, your weight also factors into the equation. A person who weighs 300lbs requires a different water intake than someone who weighs 160lbs. This is why we recommend drinking half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day to stay sufficiently hydrated. For instance, if you weigh 150lbs and divide that by two to get 75, you should be drinking 75oz of water per day.
Your body will let you know if it needs more water, and it is your responsibility to pay attention to the warning signs. The following symptoms can indicate that you need to be drinking more water.
Constipation
If you aren’t drinking enough water, it becomes harder for food to move through the digestive tract. Lack of water consumption can make stool hard or difficult to pass, i.e. constipation. Water helps your body eliminate waste, so stay hydrated to have regular, healthy bowel movements.
Dark Urine
If you are dehydrated or don’t drink enough water, you’ll notice that your urine is a dark yellow. It may also have a pungent aroma that is quite unpleasant. The reason for this is because your urine contains too much waste.
Other Symptoms of Dehydration
- Headaches
- Dry Mouth
- Muscle Cramps
- Low Blood Pressure
- Infrequent Urination
- Lightheadedness
- Rapid Heartbeat
To stay hydrated, we recommend that you always carry around a reusable water bottle, which you can constantly refill. Always drink a glass of water at every meal. Drinking a glass of water before you eat can even help you control your portions. Drink more water when you are in the sun or exercising, too. Finally, and this may be the most important rule of all, eat your water. We mean to say that there are foods with high percentages of water, so check the infographic below to see what water foods you should eat.
