5 Surprising Signs of Dehydration, According To A Dietitian
5 Surprising Signs of Dehydration, According To A Dietitian
Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD
Staying hydrated is a health goal we all know is important to prioritize. Besides the uncomfortable feeling of being parched, lacking adequate hydration can become extremely dangerous – putting us at risk for potentially life-threatening outcomes.
Staying ahead of dehydration is key to reducing our risk of experiencing dehydration. Before we experience any sign of dehydration, we should be consuming fluids in adequate amounts. Around ½ a gallon of fluid every day is what most experts recommend, although the exact need can vary based on factors like your exercise habits, weight, and climate you live in.
Many of us know of the common signs of dehydration, like having a headache, a dry mouth, and dark urine. But there are some surprising signs of dehydration that may not be top-of-mind as a cue for you to start sipping, but they should be. If you are trying to keep dehydration at-bay, here are five surprising signs of dehydration that you should have on your radar.
1. You Are Always Tired
Sometimes, reaching for that third (or fourth) cup of coffee isn’t the solution to your exhaustion. Dehydration can leave your body feeling groggy and tired, thanks to the redirection of blood to certain “priority” tissues during this state, resulting in the feeling of grogginess. Before you caffeinate again, try enjoying some hydrating fluid first to see if that helps do the trick on your sleepy symptoms.
2. You Crave Sweets
Needing something sweet may mean that you actually need some extra fluid in your body. Why? Your body depends on being hydrated to be able to use stored glucose as energy. If this process is inefficient, your body may be having a hard time breaking down stored glucose when it needs fuel ASAP. Supporting your body’s ability to use stored energy by staying hydrated is key.
3. You Have Bad Breath
Halitosis is something you would expect after eating a super-garlicky dish or you skipped brushing your chompers in the morning. But bad breath can be a surprising sign of dehydration, and having it can be a tell-tale sign that you need to drink some fluids ASAP.
When your body is dehydrated, it can be prevented from making enough saliva. Since saliva has antibacterial properties, not having enough of this fluid in your mouth can result in bad breath, thanks to potential bacteria overgrowth.
4. You Have Dry Skin
Having very dry skin can be a sign that you are not taking in enough fluids. Too, if your skin remains in a “tent” shape after it is pinched and it doesn’t return to a normal flat shape, you can be experiencing dehydration.
5. You Are Constipated
Yes, fiber is the star of the gut health-supporting nutrients. And it is true that without fiber, our body will have a hard time having regular bowel movements. But water is the unsung hero in the constipation-prevention world, and having enough fluid helps things “flow” easier.
Maintain Proper Hydration For Optimal Health
Maintaining your hydration is one of the most important things you can to do support your overall health. Not only will doing so help you feel your best, but it will also help you avoid experiencing some pesky side effects, like having bad breath, dry skin, and experiencing constipation. Opting for hydrating fluids like Drink Simple Maple Water can help support your body’s quest of maintaining fluid balance in a natural way. With natural electrolytes and half the sugar of coconut water, sipping on this delicious and natural beverage can help you keep your body’s hydration status healthy and your overall health optimized.
