The Importance Of Hydration

By La Plata Physical Therapy, Inc.

As we approach the end of summer, it’s important to remember that there are still plenty of hot days that lie ahead and it’s important when the temperatures are high to be extra conscious of staying hydrated. The importance of water goes beyond just simply that it makes up 60% of our body and that nearly every part of our body requires adequate water to work optimally. Whether it’s working around the yard or just relaxing with friends outside, your body will thank you for avoiding the harmful effects of dehydration and staying full of nutrients needed for your body to feel its best.

Being dehydrated can have very harmful effects on every function of the body from the outside (skin health) to internally (organ functions). Lacking water impacts your digestive system by slowing digestion, causing constipation, and increasing blood pressure as well as the likelihood of heartburn, ulcers, and kidney stones.

Those being active outside or inside while dehydrated aren’t allowing their body to properly deal with the effects of heat strain and the cartilage in your joints will be directly affected and become less shock absorbent. As for cognitively, your brain is arguably the most at risk during dehydration since it significantly diminishes focus, memory, reasoning, and cognitive performance during even the simplest of tasks. Often times we only notice these symptoms when it’s already too late, so the simplest way to avoid these from happening is to stay ahead of the game and stay hydrated at all times.

Avoiding dehydration can be simple if the correct steps are taken. Water is the best option for our bodies and works best when you have a little bit of food in your system to help retain it better. It’s important to remember that drinking small amounts more frequently is more beneficial than drinking a lot at once.

Don’t like the taste of water? That’s okay – try adding a bit of lemon, lime, cucumber, or orange to help give you a little more enjoyment out of drinking water. There are many different options for infusing water with different fruits and vegetables that not only help hydrate you but also give you valuable nutrients, do a little experimenting and find out what your taste buds like best.

Coconut water is also very beneficial in staying hydrated because it is loaded with antioxidants, electrolytes, fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Be cautious of buying sweetened coconut water because it can contain a lot of sugars and are less beneficial than pure coconut water. There are tons of options for staying hydrated and your body (and maybe your taste buds too) will thank you for it.

We all want to enjoy what is left of our beautiful summertime before the temperatures start dropping, whether that’s floating in a pool or hiking in the great outdoors we all need to remember that our bodies are reliant on our intake of fluids. If you start feeling like you may be getting dehydrated than you most likely are so don’t be afraid to take a break and have a few sips. Have a great end to your summer and don’t forget to drink up!

Article written by Jack Wallace