Why is it so important to stay hydrated? The human body is approximately somewhere between 50% to 70% water. This means in simple terms, your cells and organs need a proper level of water in order to function. If the water level in your body drops too low for too long a period of time your insides start to dry out. The process of drying out can cause all kinds of problems.
The average person will die if they have gone without water 3 to 4 days.
Mild to moderate dehydration can cause issues in both blood pressure and heart rate. Severe dehydration can cause weakness and confusion. It can possibly cause some permanent damage to your kidneys and brain and of course it can cause death.
Caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, and certain sodas do not hydrate your body. The best steady source of liquid is water. Sugary drinks like fruit juices, sports drinks can help you hydrate but you have to be extremely careful of these types of drink if you have other medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney or heart disease.
Resources:
Cedars-Sinai, Health Library, Dehydration, Medically reviewed: Eric Perez MD, Ronald Karlin MD, Maryann Foley RN BSN
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/d/dehydration
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USGS, Water Science School, Science, The Water In You: Water and the Human Body, May 22, 2019
https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school
Last viewed: 20240430
MedicineNet, How Long Does It Take To Die If You Don’t Eat, Dr. Sruthi M, MBBS, Medically reviewed Pallavi Suyog Uttekar MD, July 5, 2022
https://www.medicinenet.com/how_long_does_it_take_to_die_if_you_dont_eat/article.htm
Last viewed: 20240430