Have adequate water! (Not soda, coffee, tea, or water sapping energy drinks.)
For the first few years after the strokes, I didn’t even think about my water intake. I assumed that my thirst mechanism was working because I was adequately hydrated. I had enough to drink! Are you drinking enough fluids every day? Is your water-in about equal to your water-out (AKA urine, sweat, & feces)? Let’s dig into the details and make sure you have it covered!
Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work properly. In addition, to your “water out,” you need water for keeping your temperature normal and for lubricating and cushioning your joints. Water intake can increase satiety and boost your metabolic rate which leads to weight control! Even your recovery will be better if you drink enough fluids. In one study, it was shown that patients had a lower chance of having another stroke. The acid test is if your fluid intake is adequate, you rarely feel thirsty and your urine is colorless or light yellow. Easy enough.
But beware! Just because you can drink it does not mean that you are hydrated properly. In fact, your beverages can dehydrate you. Too much sugar in your drinks. Too much caffeine in your drinks. Too much alcohol in your drinks. The list of beverages that causes problems for you in a short-term or long-term basis is long! There is a list of 50 beverages that you should avoid. I referenced in the Sources.
Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired. Your hydration level significantly affects energy levels and brain function. Dehydration can trigger headaches and migraines in some individuals. Low water consumption can add to constipation in both younger and older people. It’s a mess!
When you hear about drinking 8 glasses of water a day, do you think or feel that too much? The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women. These recommendations are for the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate. These blessings cover fluids from water, other beverages, and food. About 20% of daily fluid intake usually comes from food and the rest from drinks. Drink enough!
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256 & https://www.eatthis.com/worst-drinks-on-planet/
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