Are you drinking enough water every day? The amount you should consume will depend on your gender, activity level, and health conditions.
According to one source, men should drink approximately 15.5 cups or 3.7 liters daily, while women should drink around 11.5 cups or 2.7 liters daily. Based on those guidelines, how do you measure up? The problem with not consuming enough water is that you could face negative consequences.
Continue reading to learn about five signs you're not drinking enough water -- and what to do about it.
1. Persistent Headaches
One of the problems you might encounter if you're not consuming enough water is a bout of persistent headaches. If you've ever had a splitting headache, you know it can just about ruin your day. A headache might have you canceling plans for whatever you have planned for the day.
While there are many potential causes of headaches, one is a lack of water. So, the next time you get a headache, ask yourself if you are drinking enough water. If you're at a deficit, get yourself a glass and drink up. You might find that the blasting headaches that hound you become a thing of the past or less intense.
2. Dry Mouth
Another sign that you might need to increase your water consumption is dry mouth. It occurs when your mucous membranes are dry and lack saliva. A dry mouth can make swallowing, talking, or breathing hard. Again, different health conditions or even side effects from medication can leave you with a dry mouth. But if you experience it, try drinking some water. The symptoms might disappear.
3. Weight Gain
When you think you're hungry, you might actually be thirsty. But you might gain weight if you eat every time you feel hungry and aren't physically active enough to burn calories. The next time you feel hungry and want to eat, try drinking some water instead. You might find that the water hits the right spot and you no longer feel like getting a snack.
4. Lethargy
If you're not drinking enough water every day, you might feel sluggish and lethargic during the day. You might struggle to summon the energy to do what you need to do at work, school, or home. To have the energy level you need, eat and drink the right things. Get in the habit of drinking the right amount of water. It might mean having to carry a water bottle with you. Drinking 13 to 15 cups daily might seem like a lot, but you can spread that out over the day. It'll make things manageable.
5. Constipation
A rather uncomfortable side effect of not drinking enough water is constipation. If you've ever been constipated, you don't have to be reminded how uncomfortable it is to struggle to move your bowel. But you could encounter this problem if you don't drink enough water. Drinking sufficient water will soften your stool so you don't struggle or experience pain when using the bathroom. Your stool will harden, however, if you don't drink enough water. So, avoid this issue by staying well hydrated.
You could encounter one or more of these five issues if you're not drinking enough water. How much water you need depends on various factors, but some general guidelines are available. Make it a point to drink water whether you're at home, at work, or elsewhere.
And if you tend to drink more juice or soda than pure water, endeavor to turn things around. You must drink water whether you're eating in your kitchen, on your patio deck with an outdoor pizza oven, or in a restaurant. Here's to your health!
