Dr Kranthi R Vardhan - Weekly Newsletter - Issue#60

Ever wondered why the 8-glasses-of-water rule?

It's not a myth, but an essential key to unlock your body's full potential.

Intrigued?

Keep reading !!

The primary reason to drink water is to stay hydrated, as it plays a vital role in maintaining proper bodily functions.

Let's dive deep into the unexpected side of hydration.

Every day, you hear it: “Drink 8 glasses of water.”

But why?

What's the science behind this mantra?

Is it a myth or an essentiality ?

Let's unmask this mystery.

Importance of Water & Drinking Water:

It all starts with our composition, folks. Humans are 60% water. It's an integral part of our cells, regulating our body temperature, lubricating joints, and aiding digestion.

Water is also a key player in nutrient transportation. It carries oxygen and essential vitamins around our body, ensuring that each cell gets what it needs to function optimally.

But here's a lesser-known fact:

Hydration impacts our cognitive function. Yes, even your brain thirsts for water. Dehydration can impair attention, memory, and motor skills.

And don't forget about the detoxification power of water. It helps our kidneys filter out waste and toxins. Imagine water as your body's inbuilt cleaning service.

What Happens If You Don’t Drink Enough Water:

Here are a few side effects if you do not drink enough water & end up into dehydration -

1) Persistent headaches.

One of the first things you might notice when you’re dehydrated is a throbbing headache.

2) Sluggish bowel function.

There are water receptors in the colon, and they pull water from the body to make the stools softer. If you don’t get enough water, hard stools and constipation could be common side effects, along with abdominal pain and cramps.

3) Dull skin.

Dehydration shows up on your face in the form of dry, ashy skin that seems less radiant, plump and elastic.

4) Fatigue.

If you’re not replenishing your fluid intake, your energy levels could plummet and you could experience fatigue and brain fog.

5) Weight gain.

Sometimes people mistake thirst for hunger and they eat more, but really they just need to drink more.

6) Dry mouth.

If you’re not getting enough water, you can have dry mucous membranes—i.e., a lack of saliva. This can make it difficult to talk, swallow, and even breathe.

What Happens If You Drink More Water:

Consuming too much water can be dangerous!

Excessive consumption of water can lead to dehydration when it causes an imbalance between water, electrolytes, and minerals in the body.

The condition of hyponatremia occurs when diluted sodium in the body cannot regulate cellular water absorption.

Symptoms range from confusion and headaches to coma or death when sodium-starved cells swell with water. Drinking too much water can kill you!

What Is The Solution Then ?

So when people say, 'Drink eight glasses a day,' they're not just spouting a health fad. It's a guideline rooted in science, aimed at replenishing the water we lose daily through sweat, urine, and even breath.

Eight glasses might not be the magic number for everyone. Listen to your body. Adjust according to your activity level, climate, sex and overall health.

Turn the hydration ritual into a mindful practice. With each sip, remember: you're not just quenching your thirst. You're fueling your body, aiding your mind, and promoting overall well-being.

Start your day tomorrow with a glass of water. Keep a bottle at your desk, in your car, by your bed. Make hydration a habit, not an afterthought.

Thanks for reading !

I hope you enjoyed reading this issue. If you found it useful, feel free to forward it to your friends, family, colleagues, or anyone you feel might benefit from it. If you want to read the previous issues, here’s the archive.

Have a great weekend!

- Dr. Kranthi R Vardhan