This Is How Dehydration Affects Your Body (Video)

Everyone knows the importance that drinking milk has on developing strong bones and muscles. There’s another drink, however, that’s even more important for a healthy body that doesn’t get as much attention: water.

Every part of the body needs water, including cells, skin and vital organs. Water must be continually replaced as it is lost through sweating, breathing, digestion and urination. Not replacing this necessary component of the body has serious consequences.

As the video explains, the brain is largely composed of water. When dehydration occurs, it shrinks in size and causes cognitive impairment. This impairment can be severe enough to cause problems with everyday activities. A 2015 study by Loughborough University found that drivers who were dehydrated made the same amount of mistakes while driving as those who drove under the influence of alcohol.

Dehydration poses risks for other parts of the body as well. When not enough water is consumed, the blood becomes thick and is more difficult for the heart to pump. This increases blood pressure levels and may lead to a heart attack or stroke. Lack of water also leads to frequent headaches, constipation, lethargy and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Getting enough water each day should happen through healthy, whole foods and plain water. Foods high in water include strawberries, watermelon and cucumber. Men should aim to drink between 2.5 and 3.7 liters of water per day while women should drink between two and 2.7 liters per day.

The next time you are feeling tired or are having difficulty concentrating at work, try drinking some water and see the effects that it has on your overall well-being.