The Zapper: Dehydration The thing about dehydration is that it's sneaky. By the time you feel thirsty, you are most likely already in a dehydrated state. And, as Simpson points out, "as we age, our thirst mechanism can become less sensitive." If you are not drinking enough water, the blood flow (and so the flow of oxygen and nutrients) to your organs, including your brain, is slowed. A water deficit leaves you feeling listless and leaves your skin and hair looking dull and dry.
Do you necessarily need to drink those mythical eight glasses of water a day? No. But do make sure you are getting enough of it, especially if you are sweating or are exposed to excessive heat or dry air (e.g. airplane flights). Sports drinks and designer waters are fine (studies have shown that, paradoxically, sodium helps your body rehydrate), but be aware (and beware) of the sugar and calories many of these beverages contain.
Also, Simpson notes, "If you are consuming water, choosing foods in their natural form, such as fruits and vegetables and minimizing diuretics such as coffee and alcohol, then [you] can generally attain a healthy water balance." So, you can get your water flat or bubbly or from fruits and their juices, just don't count the water in your coffee or your scotch and soda.
I definitely notice when I'm not getting enough water. I loved that they brought up all the constant choices we have to make, plus constant noise, videos, TV... sometimes I just need to totally unplug.
This is a very interesting article! I noticed not drinking enough water, staying on the computer too long and being surrounded by clutter definitely have a tendency to make me feel tired. I never linked these together before....very interesting!
This definitely called out all the things that really drain me everyday. Just like your mom telling you to brush your teeth -- sitting up straight and drinking water are basics. And don't they always say to limit screen time for kids? Why don't we listen to that for ourselves. I spend hours looking at a screen or phone everyday!!
These article is so accurate. I definitely dehydrated almost all the time and let technology consume a huge chunk of my life. A lot of the other bullets are also true.
There are very true. Now that I've started wearing one of those sleep masks to bed, it blocks out all of the random lights I never even noticed (phone, clock, room fragrance plug in), and helps me sleep better.