The importance of drinking water cannot be underestimated. Water helps the body to perform many of the functions it needs to thrive. Without water a person’s body will literally begin to shut down. Thus, it is very important for people to obtain the proper amount of water each day to ensure healthy body function. An inadequate amount of water intake will lead to your body becoming dehydrated and this is very well known, but have you ever stop to consider the effects that this has on your body?
Dehydration can be broken down into three different levels depending on the severity of the situation and the effects of your body will vary accordingly as well.
Mild dehydration
- Your urine will become concentrated and turn an amber colour due to your kidneys conserving water.
- Constipation and/or bloating may be noticed.
- Dry skin, mucous membranes, and lips.
Moderate dehydration
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness / vertigo / lightheaded.
- Problems concentrating.
- Major reduction in urine production.
- Headache.
- Cold hands and fee
Severe dehydration
- Weak irregular heart beat (often racing) and low blood pressure
- Rapid breathing
- Failure of body’s heat regulation systems (sweating, for example)
- Confusion
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Seizures
- Coma and death
