I’m confident you’ll agree that there’s nothing more refreshing than a cool, ice-cold glass of water. Yet, despite this, many of us fail to drink enough water daily. By depriving ourselves of the world’s most natural resource, we unknowingly harm our bodies over time. If you notice any of the following signs, you can significantly improve your situation by simply drinking more water.
Signs You Need to Drink More Water
- Your Mouth Feels Dry
While this may seem obvious, the implications are often overlooked. That sticky, uncomfortable feeling in your mouth is a clear signal your body needs hydration. Sugary drinks might offer temporary relief, but water is the ultimate solution. It lubricates the mucus membranes in your mouth and throat, ensuring your mouth stays moist with saliva long after that first sip. - Your Skin is Dry
As your body’s largest organ, your skin requires proper hydration to stay healthy. Dry skin is one of the earliest signs of dehydration, which can lead to more severe issues. Without enough water, your body can’t produce sweat, making it harder to wash away dirt and oil that accumulate on your skin. To prevent breakouts and maintain healthy skin, start by drinking more water. - You Feel Overly Thirsty
Thirst goes beyond just a dry mouth. If you’ve ever had a hangover, you know the intense craving for water that follows. Alcohol dehydrates your body, and drinking water sends strong signals to your brain until your fluid levels are restored. Always listen to your body—it knows what it needs. - Your Eyes Feel Dry
Water intake affects more than just your mouth and throat. Dehydration can lead to dry, bloodshot eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. Without adequate water, your tear ducts dry up, increasing the risk of eye irritation and damage. - You Experience Joint Pain
Your cartilage and spinal discs are made up of about 80% water, which is essential to prevent bones from grinding against each other. Staying hydrated ensures your joints can absorb shock during activities like running, jumping, or even walking. - Your Muscle Mass Decreases
Muscles are primarily composed of water, so dehydration can lead to a loss of muscle mass. Drinking water before, during, and after exercise keeps you hydrated, reduces inflammation, and helps your muscles recover faster. - You Stay Sick Longer
Water helps your body flush out toxins. When dehydrated, your organs struggle to function properly, often pulling water from other areas like your blood. This can lead to a host of health issues, prolonging illness and recovery time. - You Feel Fatigued and Lethargic
Dehydration forces your body to “borrow” water from your blood, reducing oxygen flow throughout your body. This lack of oxygen leads to fatigue, sleepiness, and that dreaded afternoon energy crash. Remember, coffee isn’t a long-term solution—water is. - You Experience Hunger Pangs
Dehydration can trick your body into thinking it’s hungry. Instead of reaching for a snack, try drinking water. It helps purify your organs and provides the energy your body needs to function properly. - You Experience Digestive Problems
Proper hydration is essential for your digestive system. Without enough water, the mucus lining in your stomach weakens, allowing stomach acid to cause damage, leading to heartburn and indigestion. - You Experience Constipation
Water lubricates your digestive system. When dehydrated, your colon uses water meant for the intestines, leading to constipation. Staying hydrated ensures smooth digestion. - You Experience Reduced Urination
If you’re not urinating 4-7 times a day, you’re likely not drinking enough water. Healthy urine should be light yellow or clear. Dark yellow urine is a sign of dehydration, and in severe cases, it can lead to urinary tract infections. - You Notice Signs of Premature Aging
As we age, our bodies retain less water. To combat premature aging, both internally and externally, it’s crucial to increase your water intake as you get older. - You’re Reading This and Have Made It This Far
If you’ve read this far, chances are you’ve thought, “I don’t drink enough water.” The European Food Safety Authority recommends women drink about 1.6 litres and men about 2.0 litres of fluid daily. This equals roughly eight 200ml glasses for women and ten for men. However, individual needs vary based on factors like size, activity level, and climate. For example, exercising in hot weather requires even more hydration.
All beverages count toward your daily fluid intake, including tea and coffee, but water, milk, and fruit juices are the healthiest options. Avoid sugary, fizzy, and alcoholic drinks, as they can be high in calories and harmful to your teeth. Prioritize water to keep your body functioning at its best.