Why Do We Need to Get Hydrated?

Water is one of the components that we need to survive and to get hydrated. There is a reason why it is in the Hierarchy of Needs that was proposed by Abraham Maslow, which is in the Physiological Needs, it follows the needs like air, food, shelter, clothes, and many more. When we think of it, around 71% of water comprises the earth, and because of that, we have the sources we need such as fish, corrals, and many more of the oceanic beauty of the earth. Apart from the resources that we may have in the bodies of water, let us focus on how important water is when staying hydrated. Why is being hydrated important?

The body needs water for a variety of critical functions to occur. Fluid in the body is needed to allow these processes to happen, from the blood system providing critical glucose, oxygen, and nutrients to cells to the kidneys getting rid of waste materials we no longer desire. Additionally, it maintains our skin healthy, lubricates our eyes, joints, and digestive system, and aids in digestion. We lose more water by sweating than we need to, therefore people who live in (or travel to) hot climates or lose more water during physical activity than usual may need to consume more fluids more frequently.

As we become older, the amount of water in our bodies changes, with babies having a higher volume than adults. Despite having lower fluid levels than younger people, hydration is crucial for people of all ages. We are specially built to control our body temperature, especially in hot weather. We do this by perspiring more, which cools the body and helps us keep a constant body temperature.

Now that we have realized how important hydration is, let us proceed on what ways we could stay hydrated especially now that there are changes in our atmosphere that creates climate change that results in a bad effect.

• Do not put off drinking till you’re dehydrated – You’re already a little dehydrated by the time you start to feel thirsty. Sip water steadily throughout the day and drink more fluids than normal when the weather is hot, especially if you’re active.

• Give your water a taste of flavor – If you find plain water bland, flavor it with some fresh fruit or a little fruit juice. It is also good if you put slices of lemon in it to have a citric taste that can detoxify you as well. Clear broths, ice pops, or sports drinks are also acceptable options (particularly if you’re engaging in vigorous activity). Just remember to keep alcohol and caffeine intake in check.

• Consume produce that is high in water – Along with beneficial nutrients, several fruits and vegetables also include a lot of water. Fruits having a high-water content include watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, peaches, and pineapples. Cucumbers, leafy greens, radishes, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes are vegetables high in water.

• Be careful of the indicators of dehydration – If anybody in your family is unwell, take attention to how much they’re able to drink – especially little children and the elderly. Drink lots of water if you’re feeling sick or have diarrhea, vomiting, or a fever. Do not hold off until you start to feel dehydrated.

At this time that we know about the importance of hydration, and what to do when we are dehydrated or to prevent dehydration, we must keep this all in mind all the time. A friendly reminder, bring your water bottle everywhere with you.