Are You Dehydrated?

Do you ever wonder if you're drinking enough water? 

You should be drinking half your body weight in ounces of water daily. So, if you weigh 140lbs, you need 70oz of water. 

Some things you eat can either add or take away from that. Veggies and Fruit, especially in raw form, will add. Caffeine, salt, and dry foods such as jerky and crackers, can easily dehydrate you. I always drink more if I have any of those, just to be sure. I also drink more when it's hot, or when I've done a hard workout, which is nearly every day for me ( the hard workout part, anyway ).

Being dehydrated can reek havoc on any attempts to lose weight, build muscle, tone up, get in shape, or whatever your Fitness Goals may be. About 60% of our body is made up of water. It flushes toxins out of our vitals Organs, carries nutrients to our cells, and keep our ears, nose and throat moist. Water is essential, even if we were sedentary ( which, I hope none of you are! ).  Everyday, we lose water through our breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For our bodies to function properly, we need to replenish it's water, by consuming Beverages, and Foods that contain water.

Dehydration Symptoms are:

•  Dry, sticky mouth
• Sleepiness or tiredness
• Thirst
• Decreased urine output - Urine should be clear
• Few or no tears when crying
• Dry skin
• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Severe Dehydration - A medical Emergency - Can cause - 

• Extreme thirst
• Extreme fussiness or sleepiness in infants and children; irritability and confusion in adults
• Very dry mouth, skin and mucous membranes
• Lack of sweating
• Little or no urination — any urine that is produced will be dark yellow or amber
• Sunken eyes
• Shriveled and dry skin that lacks elasticity and doesn't "bounce back" when pinched into a fold
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rapid breathing
• No tears when crying
• Fever
• In the most serious cases, delirium or unconsciousness

What are good Sources of Water, other than Water? Foods High in water, such as Watermelon, and Tomatoes, and other Fruits and Veggies. Milk & Juice are composed mostly of water. Even Beer, wine, and caffeinated beverages contain water, but should be kept to a minimum due to high calories, and caffeine will dehydrate you.

Note* Most of this info came from the Mayo Clinic Website.