10 signs you’re not drinking enough water
Water plays a vital role in everything from digestion to circulation, temperature regulation, and waste elimination. While it’s important, many people don’t drink enough water every day. Dehydration can happen gradually, and its symptoms can be mistaken for other problems. Knowing the early signs can help you avoid health problems that can result from not being hydrated enough.
Here are 10 common signs that you may not be drinking enough water.
- Dry mouth and throat
One of the first signs of dehydration is a dry, sticky mouth and sore throat. Saliva keeps your mouth moist and controls bacteria, so dry mouth can lead to bad breath. - Dark yellow urine
Healthy urine is usually light yellow. If your urine is dark or has a strong odor, it’s a sign that your body is trying to conserve water. - Fatigue
Feeling tired and weak throughout the day is a sign that you’re dehydrated. Dehydration can slow down your blood circulation and brain function, making you feel drowsy and foggy. - Headaches
Mild dehydration can cause headaches due to decreased fluid around the brain and changes in blood volume. - Dry skin
Moisturizing starts from the inside out. If your skin feels tight, dry, and flaky, especially in warmer weather, you may need more water. - Constipation
Water helps your digestive system function smoothly. Not drinking enough can make your stool hard and difficult to pass. - Dizziness or lightheadedness
Low fluid levels can cause low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness when standing or exercising. - Increased hunger or cravings
Thirst is often confused with hunger. If you feel hungry soon after eating, you need to hydrate. - Decreased urination or sweating
If you notice that you are urinating frequently or sweating very little, even when you are active, this may be a sign that your body is conserving fluids. - Poor concentration
The brain is very sensitive to humidity. Even mild dehydration can negatively affect memory, mood, and concentration.
