In the long, hot days of summer, staying hydrated becomes a top priority for every senior. No matter how you approach it, proper hydration should be a year-round habit. What happens if you don’t drink enough water?
What Happens If You Don’t Drink Enough Water?
Staying hydrated is the key to staying cool and comfortable during summer. But did you know that drinking enough water is vital for your health no matter what the weather is like outside? Whether it’s hot and humid or cold and chilly, water is essential to your body’s health, and not drinking enough of it is a shortcut to poor health outcomes. What happens if you don’t drink enough water?
Why Is Dehydration an Issue for Seniors?
Believe it or not, water does much more for your body than just quenching your thirst. Water is key to several critical processes that your body completes every day. Water helps your body remove waste, absorb vitamins and nutrients, and even digest food. Not drinking enough water can allow toxins to build up in your body, leading to health issues like constipation and kidney disease. A lack of hydration can also make your body feel weaker and contribute to problems like headaches and dizziness. Drinking water regularly throughout the day is essential to your overall health and well-being, even if you aren’t thirsty.
Unfortunately, several likely factors complicate your water intake if you’re in your golden years. As you get older, your sense of thirst can become less sensitive, which means you’re less likely to notice if you’re badly in need of water. In addition, many medications common to senior health issues can cause dehydration, including diuretics and diabetes medications. If you’re a senior, hydrating yourself should be a regular habit!
How Can I Drink More Water?
No matter how much water you’re currently drinking, the odds are good that you can use a hydration habit refresher. There are many ways that you can make drinking water an intentional and enjoyable part of your day:
- Set a goal. You should try drinking between six and eight glasses of water daily. This can include plain water or water with a sports drink or other flavorings for extra nutrients. Try to avoid liquids that lead to dehydration, like coffee and alcohol.
- Make water a part of your food. Believe it or not, food can provide another unique source of hydration for your body. Wet foods like fruit, yogurt, and even gelatin desserts can provide a hydration boost and some variety.
- Look for ways to increase your water intake throughout the day. It will be easier to make hydration a part of your day if you work it into your daily habits. For example, do you drink a little water with your pills in the morning? Why not sip a full glass instead? A glass of water can accompany every meal and snack and be a refreshing treat after a workout.
- Make water fun! Drinking water doesn’t have to be a chore. If you’re tired of flat water, try something sparkling, or add some flavor with fresh fruit. You can make it a social habit by inviting your friends to a daily water break.
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What happens when you don’t drink enough water? Your health suffers as a result. Be sure to drink plenty of water daily, and if you need more advice on hydration, check in with a health care professional.
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