Feeling thirsty? Even if you aren’t, getting a quick swig of water may be a good idea. There are plenty of signs you aren’t drinking enough water, and some of them may surprise you. If you tend to get super-cranky for no apparent reason or you just feel wiped out and lethargic despite getting enough sleep, then it may be time to dig out that giant water bottle and keep it in arm's reach all day.
Although the exact amount of water you need each day will vary based on your body size and activity level, many people could stand to get some extra ounces (or cups) in each day. Your body needs it to function, it contains no calories, and it’s generally readily available, so there are almost no reasons to decrease your water intake. There is no downside, other than an uptick in your number of bathroom trips during the day. (OK, so it is possible to drink too much water, as well. It’s all about the happy medium, folks.) Whether you nurse a giant Nalgene bottle all day or forget about water until the thirst strikes, knowing the facts about hydration can only help you out. Don’t stay thirsty: stay hydrated!
1You Have A Dry Mouth
So this one is kind of a no-brainer. But according to Daily Health Remedies, having dry mouth is typically your body's way of telling you to take a drink. It's time to wet your whistle.
2You Have Dark Pee
You don't need to drink until it's clear. But according to Mercola, if your urine is a rather dark hue, it may indicate your kidneys are having to retain fluid. Give them some water so they can keep on working.
3You Have Dry Lips
If you're going through lip balm like it's going out of style, dehydration may be the actual culprit. As explained in Healthline, dehydration is one of the most common causes of dry, chapped lips. Keep your mouth (and the rest of your body) happy with lots of water.
4You Suffer From Serious Headaches
Headaches are the worst, and they're even more insufferable if you can't put your finger on the cause. Although the exact cause is unknown, Very Well noted that the blood vessels in your head may become restricted if your body does not have adequate fluid. You can attempt to drown out your headaches with plenty of water.
5You're Worn Down
If you're struggling to make it around the block when you can usually run for miles, then dehydration may be to blame. According to the Huffington Post, dehydration can make an easy workload start to feel strenuous. A few ounces of H2O may be all the pick-me-up your body needs.
6You're Moody
If you're irritated by every last little thing your coworkers are up to, then it may be time to drink up. As reported by the Huffington Post, mild dehydration has been linked to mood swings and a general inability to think clearly. Water may soothe the savage beast within you.
7You Feel Dizzy
Feeling lightheaded is almost never a good sign. But according to the Mayo Clinic, dizziness is one common symptom of dehydration. Of course, sipping on a water bottle all day is preferable to falling out in your big meeting.
8You Have A Lingering Sicknesses
If that winter cold is still hanging around by the time Memorial Day rolls around, then chronic dehydration may be to blame. According to New Health Advisor, water is a crucial tool for helping your body eliminate waste products, and this process may not work as well when you're dehydrated. You might feel extra-lousy for a long time.
9You're Thirsty
Of course you're thinking, "Girl, this is not news." But according to the Baylor College of Medicine, by the time you get thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. It's probably a good idea to drink enough so that you can stay a step ahead of your thirst.
