A refreshing glass of water nourishes the body and delivers many benefits, but too often, people tend to forget to drink enough of it. You could be experiencing some symptoms that - while not alarming - can be bothersome. It might just be because you haven't been drinking the ideal amount of water your body needs.
Is your body signaling you to drink more water? Spot the signs below:
1) Dry mouth
This condition mostly affects women and the elderly, and it's often because of medications, according to Medicine Net. Water helps lubricate the membranes inside the mouth and stimulates saliva production. If you're experiencing mouth dryness, don't reach out for juice, soda or other beverages. Eliminate the sugar and drink plain H2O.
2) Dry skin
Water helps keep blood flowing to the skin, according to a study published in the National Institutes of Health. With less water intake, the skin doesn't get moisturized and becomes dry, resulting in breakouts and other skin conditions. If you have dry or acne-prone skin, perhaps a few extra glasses of water could help.
3) Muscle and joint pain
Our body is made of mostly water, and when there isn't enough fluid flowing through, then you could start feeling pain in your joints and muscles. Water contains electrolytes that nourish cartilage, according to Water Cures, and helps ease soreness in the muscles after enduring physical activities. Get your chug on before and after a workout.
4) Lethargy, fatigue and headache
A decrease in water will slow down the flow of blood and oxygen in your veins, so which could make you tired and sleepy. You could also develop a headache as you're slowly getting dehydrated. If you don't want your body to crash, make a habit of drinking more water, especially if you have a long day ahead at work.
"Many of my patients do not drink enough fluid each day and only believe they are dehydrated when they start to feel thirsty," said Dr. Roger Henderson of the Natural Hydration Council via Daily Mail. "Yet other symptoms of dehydration appear before this, including fatigue and tiredness, headaches and poor concentration."
5) Constipation and digestive problems
As with other organs in the body, staying hydrated keeps the stomach and intestines functioning best. To lessen indigestion, heartburn and constipation, drink additional glasses on top of what's recommended, combining hydration with a diet high in fiber, according to Free Drinking Water.
