Alright, I decided to start a new topic of discussion 1 day a week with one thing that I am working on to create a more healthy me. Today I am focusing on water. One of the basic building blocks of life. In fact, Water is so important that it can literally be the only thing standing between you and health. Your entire body craves water. From the cells, to the joints and even your tissue. It helps lubricate, rid your body of waste and even allows for a greater regulation of temperature.
Improper hydration can lead to issues such as heat exhaustion, stroke, vomiting, and even kidney disease, which is the latest chronic condition that has plagued me. When I am not drinking the proper amounts of water I have to urinate at such high urgency it can create multiple problems in public or even at home. Seizures are another issue that can be a result of a dehydrated body or imbalanced electrolytes,
One of the most dangerous effects of not getting proper hydration, is the chance of low blood volume shock or hypovolemic shock. This is a result of lower than normal blood volume as a result of dehydration which can lead to the body becoming de-oxygenized (not getting the proper oxygen to the entire body) due to low blood flow and this can send you into a state of shock which could lead to an extended hospitalization time.
It shouldn’t be shocking since our bodies are made up of 70% water, but it still may be to some people, that chronic conditions can be kept at bay longer or avoided all together by getting the proper hydration throughout your life.
The following conditions can be avoided or held at bay by proper hydration:
- Bladder/Colon Cancer
- Kidney Stones
- Constipation
- High Blood Pressure
- Obesity
- Exercise Induced Asthma
- Heart Disease
- Cerebral Infarct
- Kidney Disease
- Dental Disease
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis
So, if water is the key to creating a more sustainable future for yourself, the questions begs to ask, how much water should we each be drinking each day for maximum profitability to our body systems?
I found a great blog (linked here) called Slender Kitchen that shows how to calculate your proper water intake and a water bottle that can help you track.
Now go out there, find something small or big to adventure in and make sure you keep water with you at all times. Remember, if you feel like you are thirsty, you are already slightly dehydrated.
Did you know caffeinated drinks actually decrease hydration? So, when we say water, we actually mean water. If you struggle drinking water plain, bring along electrolyte mixes or liquid IV that can help increase your water intake by adding some flavor or extra umph and as always, keep chugging.
Wander Girl 
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