Your Body When You Don’t Drink Enough Water: What Happens?

The Crucial Role of Hydration: Effects of Insufficient Water Intake

Water is a cornerstone of optimal health, supporting a multitude of bodily functions. Given that the human body is composed of around 60% water, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), maintaining adequate hydration is paramount to fuel cells, sustain brain function, and promote overall bodily equilibrium.

While the importance of drinking water to stay hydrated is well known, it’s worth noting that certain foods can also contribute to elevated hydration levels. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, bell peppers, and tomatoes, can effectively enhance hydration.

However, many individuals fall short of their daily water intake requirements, potentially resorting to dehydrating sources like sugar-sweetened beverages and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.

Let’s delve into the repercussions of insufficient water intake on the body, encompassing 10 unpleasant side effects:

1. Decreased Energy Levels Dehydration can result in a noticeable decrease in energy levels. Water plays a pivotal role in maintaining mental alertness and overall bodily balance, as highlighted in a 2019 review published in Nutrients. Failing to consume adequate water throughout the day can exacerbate the afternoon slump and leave you too fatigued to tackle work or engage in evening workouts. A consistent reminder, such as a readily accessible water bottle, can encourage steady hydration.
2. Cognitive Impairment Given that the human brain comprises approximately 73% water, as indicated by the USGS, maintaining proper hydration is crucial for mental acuity, even in the long term. The same 2019 review in Nutrients underscores that dehydration can have detrimental effects on working memory. Working memory facilitates temporary information retention, enabling us to carry out tasks without losing track. If you find yourself mentally sluggish or experiencing periods of distraction, hydrating adequately might alleviate these symptoms.
3. Heightened Stroke Risk According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, dehydration can elevate the risk of strokes and prolong the recovery period if a stroke has occurred. To uphold cardiovascular health, vigilance towards hydration is vital. If your urine appears dark yellow or you feel lightheaded, swift rehydration is recommended.
4. Mood Instability Dehydration can contribute to irritability. The 2019 Nutrients review reveals that emotional states, including anger, hostility, confusion, depression, and tension, can intensify with as little as 1% dehydration. Next time you experience a negative mood or irritability, consider replenishing with water and taking a moment to breathe and hydrate.
5. Overeating Tendencies Thirst and hunger cues are sometimes mistaken for each other. Increasing water consumption can help differentiate between genuine hunger and thirst. If your hunger persists after drinking water, it’s crucial to listen to your body’s signals and nourish it accordingly.
6. Sluggish Metabolism Since water is essential for all bodily functions, dehydration can lead to a natural slowdown of metabolism, accompanied by reduced energy levels. Sufficient hydration equips your body to operate optimally and promote a sense of well-being.
7. Headaches Insufficient hydration can lead to headaches and fatigue, as indicated by 2021 research in Current Pain and Headache Reports. Adequate hydration is necessary to provide the brain with the necessary support, and in some cases, drinking water and resting might alleviate headaches without the need for additional interventions.
8. Impaired Skin Health Healthy, hydrated skin requires adequate water intake. The Nutrients review of 2019 highlights that individuals with optimal water intake exhibit greater skin elasticity and reduced dryness and roughness. Inadequate water consumption can accelerate signs of aging. Collagen, a crucial component of skin health, may deteriorate, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. A comprehensive skincare routine, complemented by sufficient water intake, is essential for maintaining supple skin.
9. Diminished Workout Performance During physical exertion, electrolytes and water are lost through sweat. Maintaining hydration before, during, and after exercise is vital to replenish these losses. A 2021 study in the Journal of Human Kinetics demonstrates that inadequate hydration can lead to decreased strength, endurance, power, and overall performance. Prioritize proper hydration before, during, and after workouts to optimize your exercise regimen.
10. Weight Gain While modest weight gain is not typically a cause for concern, persistent or abdominal weight gain can elevate the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Drinking water, especially as a substitute for sugary beverages or high-calorie drinks, can aid weight loss, as highlighted in a 2019 review in Nutricion Hospitalaria. Water provides satiety, potentially curbing hunger between meals and snacks. However, water should not be used as a meal replacement.

In Conclusion

Water is essential for numerous bodily processes and may even contribute to improved mood. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, consider infusing it with flavors like cucumber, mint, citrus fruits, or berries. Alternatively, experiment with creating DIY flavored ice cubes, which not only enhance taste but also offer visual appeal.