Five Unexpected Signs You're Dehydrated (They May Surprise You)

Most of us know the importance of staying hydrated. Despite our best efforts to stay hydrated by drinking the recommended daily intake of water (and even going beyond it!), that feeling of dry mouth is often persistent. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to look into some of the more unconventional signs of dehydration. By knowing the signs of dehydration, we can be more proactive to avoid its effects.

Surprising Signs of Dehydration

Sugar Cravings: A craving for something sweet is not always due to the obvious - a desire for a piece of your favorite candy or cake. The root cause of the craving may be your body desiring water as opposed to something sugary. Sugar cravings are an overlooked sign of dehydration. When you are dehydrated, your liver doesn’t function properly, thereby causing your body to crave something sweet. The next time you reach for a desert to satisfy a perceived craving, drink some water instead. That sugar craving just may stop.

Sadness & Depression: Feeling down may be another sign of dehydration. The brain needs water and other elements to function like a well-oiled machine. When these levels are off, this connection is disrupted, sometimes resulting in a feeling of sadness and depression.

Overeating: Ever feel like you’re hungry right after eating a big meal? You might actually be thirsty. It’s easy to mistake thirst for hunger, so before you raid the pantry for snacks, try sipping some water first to see if that hunger disappears.

Rapid Heart Rate: Do you recognize the feeling of an elevated heart beat when exercising? If you experience that same feeling during the regular course of your day, it may be a sign of dehydration. For that reason, always keep a bottle of water with you. Of course, if the problem persists, seek medical assistance immediately as it may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Confusion: "Brain fog"is also linked to hydration. When you find it challenging to concentrate and perform mental tasks, drink some water and take some time to collect yourself.  Many times, you’ll begin to feel the fog lifting and leaving you ready to take on your day's activities.

So, take full advantage of water's healing and wellness properties by staying well-hydrated and keeping your body and mind in top shape.