Santo Domingo.– Feeling thirsty can be a sign that the body needs to replenish fluids. Although many people wait for that moment to drink water, health specialists warn that insufficient hydration can affect the body’s functioning and become a risk factor, especially for people with cardiovascular conditions.
Water is essential for the body, as it participates in processes such as the regulation of body temperature, the transport of nutrients, the elimination of waste, and the proper functioning of organs such as the brain, kidneys, and heart.
Specialists recommend not waiting until you feel thirsty to hydrate, because that sensation may appear when the body has already begun to lose fluids necessary to maintain its functions.
How does a lack of water affect the heart?
When the body loses fluids, blood plasma volume decreases, which can cause the blood to become more concentrated and increase the effort the heart must exert to maintain proper circulation.
This does not mean that drinking little water directly causes a heart attack, but prolonged dehydration can pose an additional risk, mainly in people with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular factors.
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The brain and kidneys also suffer
Lack of hydration can affect different areas of the body. Among the main effects are fatigue, difficulty concentrating, headaches, dizziness, and a decrease in physical and mental performance.
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The kidneys also depend on water to eliminate waste substances through urine. When fluid intake is insufficient, the body reduces the amount of urine and it may appear darker in color.
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Signs that the body needs more water
Some symptoms may indicate that there is poor hydration:
- Headache or dizziness.
- Frequent tiredness.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Dry mouth or bad breath.
- Constipation.
- Scanty or darker-colored urine.
- Muscle cramps or discomfort.
- Dry skin and lips.
- Constant feeling of hunger.
- Increased heart rate.
How much water should you drink per day?
The recommendation to consume about eight glasses of water a day continues to be a common reference, although the necessary amount may vary depending on age, weight, physical activity, and weather conditions.
In countries with high temperatures, such as the Dominican Republic, the body may require a greater amount of fluids due to the loss of water caused by heat and sweating.
Excess water can also be harmful
Although it is rare, drinking excessive amounts of water in a short time can disrupt the sodium balance in the body and cause hyponatremia, a condition that can affect health.
To maintain proper hydration, specialists recommend drinking water consistently throughout the day, keeping a bottle available, drinking upon waking up, and accompanying meals with liquids.
Maintaining an adequate water intake helps the body function properly and helps prevent the negative effects associated with dehydration.
