Water is something that we cannot avoid because it is an essential part of life. Water is the most important nutrient for the human body, and while we can survive for weeks without food, we can only survive for a few days without water.
If you are dehydrated, water acts as the primary solvent for food that has been digested in the stomach. However, there isn’t a specific daily recommended amount of water for each person, as water loss varies individually. Generally, drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day, about 2 liters, helps maintain proper blood circulation, nourish the body effectively, and flush toxins out of the system.
If the human body receives insufficient water each day, it can have harmful effects, such as making the blood thicker and more concentrated. This can result in the brain not getting enough blood, leading to cognitive decline and poor brain function.
Drinking water helps keep the skin hydrated, giving it a smooth and supple appearance while preventing dryness and roughness. It also helps prevent the formation of wrinkles on the face, refreshes the body, and improves brain function, as the brain is made up of about 85% water.
Dehydration
Dehydration refers to a condition where the body loses more water than it takes in. If the body becomes severely dehydrated and doesn’t receive adequate replacement at the right time, it can lead to negative consequences. On the other hand, if the body receives too much water, it can also have harmful effects.
Normally, the body loses water through sweat, breathing, and urination. Additionally, when we sweat, we also lose essential minerals from the body. Especially in hot climates like ours, the body requires more water to maintain proper hydration due to increased sweating.
What Happens If You Drink Too Much or Too Little Water?
It can disrupt the body’s balance of water and electrolytes, which may lead to symptoms of low electrolytes such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
Avoid Caffeinated Drinks, Tea, and Alcohol in Hot Weather
It is advised not to drink coffee, tea, or alcohol in extremely hot weather as these beverages dehydrate the body. Drinking coffee increases urination, causing a loss of about 200 milliliters of water each time you urinate. The more coffee you drink, the more water you lose.
Drinking Cold Water in Extreme Heat
When you drink cold water, your body takes time to adjust the temperature to match your body’s internal temperature for proper absorption. If it can’t adjust quickly enough, only a small portion of the water will be absorbed, and the rest will pass through the digestive and urinary systems, causing dehydration. This can lead to dry mouth, dry skin, and dark yellow urine.
Avoid Cold Water During Menstruation
For women who experience menstrual pain, it’s best to avoid drinking cold water during their period as it can worsen the pain.
