Regarding dehydration or lack of water in the body, experts say that whether you prefer drinking plain tap water or sparkling water, it does not make much difference, and it is quite likely that you are not as hydrated as you think.
Dehydration occurs when the amount of water you drink or consume in liquids is less than the amount of water the body loses through sweating, urination, and other basic bodily processes such as breathing.
Since the human body is composed of about 70 percent water, a lack of water can have serious effects and if ignored for a long period it may even become life threatening.
In the United Kingdom, it is a matter of concern that a large portion of the population can be counted among those suffering from dehydration. Some online sources even say that more than half of the people in the UK drink less water than the required amount each day.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) recommends that adults should aim to drink about two to two and a half liters of water daily. This amount also includes water present in squash, fruit juices, milk, tea, and coffee.
According to British nutrition expert Gina Hope, some fruits and vegetables can also contribute to our daily water intake. She says that cucumber is the vegetable with the highest water content, but tomatoes and celery also contain high amounts of water.
In addition, fruits such as melon, watermelon, and pineapple also contain a high amount of water, but they are also quite sweet, so they should be consumed in moderation.
Despite the availability of many ways to maintain an adequate level of water in the body, millions of people still fail to reach the required daily intake, which increases the risk of illness and can lead to conditions ranging from constipation to coma.
Another concern regarding dehydration is its connection with how the body responds to stress. A study conducted on the relationship between water consumption and stress hormones found that dehydration increases the risks of heart disease, kidney problems, mood disorders, and diabetes.
