Water is a principal component in the human body and for it to function properly you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.
Dehydration occurs when a person uses or loses more fluid than is consumed, and the body doesn’t have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions. You lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements.
As we age, our bodies tend to hold less and less water. As a result, older individuals typically suffer from dehydration more readily.
During illness and as we age it isn’t unusual to limit liquid intake in an attempt to prevent frequent trips to the bathroom or urinary incontinence. All of these factors increase the danger of dehydration and can lead to delirium, infections or worse.
It is important to monitor your daily water intake, and be able to recognise the signs that you may need to start drinking more.
The most common signs and symptoms in the early stages of dehydration include a dry mouth, thirst, dry skin, sleepiness, cramps, weakness and a decrease in urination.
As the level of dehydration increases it becomes more serious and can cause additional problems including low blood pressure, severe muscle cramps, confusion, irritability and rapid breathing.
Many fruits and vegetables contain water. Eating foods like cucumbers, tomatoes and watermelon can help keep you hydrated. Avoiding alcohol and minimising your sodium and caffeine intake can also help keep you hydrated.
The Eatwell Guide says we should drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day. Water, lower fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee, all count.
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