
Is Your Body Secretly Dehydrated? Anushka Sharma’s Dietician Shares 3 Must-Try Dehydration Tests! (Image Credits: iStock)
Seasonal changes often bring a surge in health problems like the common cold, fever, and flu. While most people focus on remedies for these conditions, they often overlook a crucial factor—hydration. Lack of sufficient water intake can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced energy levels, all of which can significantly impact recovery and overall well-being.
Recently, Anushka Sharma’s dietician and Olympic Sports Nutritionist, Ryan Fernando, took to Instagram where he explained the importance of staying hydrated and how to determine whether your body is getting enough water. He explains three simple self-tests to quickly assess hydration levels.
3 Simple Tests to Check for Dehydration
Ryan Fernando explains that symptoms such as tiredness, dull skin, and mood swings could be signs of dehydration. To help people identify whether they need to increase their water intake, he recommended the following tests:
1. Skin Pinch Test
- Pinch the skin on the back of your hand and hold it for a second before releasing it.
- If your skin takes longer than usual to return to its original state, it could indicate dehydration.
2. Tongue Check
- Look at your tongue in the mirror.
- If it appears dry or has a white coating, it’s a clear sign that your body needs more water.
3. Sweat and Urine Colour Test
- If you sweat less than usual, especially in hot weather, it might be due to dehydration.
- Dark yellow-coloured urine is another strong indicator of insufficient water intake.
Ryan Fernando shares, “If you see these signs, drink a glass of water immediately and ensure you consume at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.”
What is Dehydration?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance that affects normal bodily functions. It can be caused by excessive sweating, inadequate water intake, illness, or even seasonal changes. Common symptoms include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and reduced urine output.
Severe dehydration can have serious consequences, such as kidney problems, heat-related illnesses, and a drop in blood pressure. This is why recognizing early signs and taking preventive measures is essential.
How to Keep Yourself Hydrated
Maintaining optimal hydration levels is simple yet vital for overall health. Here are some ways to ensure you stay hydrated:
- Drink Sufficient Water: Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, adjusting based on activity level and climate.
- Consume Hydrating Foods: Include fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon.
- Monitor Your Urine Colour: Light yellow urine generally indicates good hydration, while dark yellow signals dehydration.
- Limit Caffeinated and Sugary Drinks: Excess coffee, tea, and soda can contribute to dehydration.
- Set Reminders: If you tend to forget to drink water, set hourly reminders to take small sips throughout the day.
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting digestion, and keeping the skin healthy.
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