Hydration and Gut Health

We all know that hydration is important and is a pivotal part of our overall health. ​​Drinking enough water each day is crucial for many reasons including: regulating body temperature, keeping joints lubricated, preventing infections, delivering nutrients to cells and keeping organs functioning properly. It can also help to improve sleep quality, cognition and overall mood. Today, we are going to discuss the importance hydration can have on our gut health.

Dehydration Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of dehydration can include dark-colored urine, only urinating a few times each day, headaches, acid reflux, constipation, bloating, nausea, and bad breath. These are just a few of the top symptoms, which means that the list is even longer of the negative effects of dehydration. Just taking a moment to realize all these negative effects shows how important proper hydration is not only to your daily life but just to help you look and feel your absolute best.

Even with efficient water intake, there are some foods and drinks that can derail your hydration goals. Caffeine, alcohol and sugar can wreak havoc on your gut as they pull water from your body, especially when consumed outdoors or in the sun. The reason for this is that everything that is not water needs your body’s water to process. 

Hydration and the Digestive System

Taking in an adequate amount of fluid can help your overall gut health. Staying hydrated can help to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation and break down foods in combination with stomach acids and enzymes. Your body will pull any available fluids to help food move through your digestive system, and when there is not available, the result can be constipation or bloating with slow digestion. Stomach ulcers or acid reflux issues can also become an issue when longer periods of dehydration. 

Did you know that the leading cause of hospital visits for seniors is dehydration? But dehydration can affect everyone at every age, and while the recommended water intake for every individual is different, understanding what your body needs is the first important step to healthy hydration. 

Tips for Staying Hydrated

If you are looking to get hydrated, then your number one source should be water! It is recommended that women drink 11.5 cups of water each day and men drink 15.5 cups per day. Whether you drink it from your favorite cup or with a little fizz in the form of carbonated water, drinking clean, refreshing water is a great way to stay hydrated. Now, water can get boring or repetitive sometimes, so try some great water alternatives or additions. Consider trying unsweetened tea or fruit infusions to give yourself a light refreshing twist. You can also look into adding a flavor enhancer but just watch out for added caffeine or sugar! Incorporating high water content foods can also give you that added boost in hydration like watermelon, celery, cucumber, and strawberries.

Regen IV Wellness also offers hydration services for those days when you need an added boost. This is a great option after a few days of eating or drinking higher amounts of sugar, caffeine and alcohol. If you think hydration may be behind some of your digestive health issues, then schedule an appointment today.​

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