Norman Regional Health System

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

With water comprising 70% of our physical makeup, it goes without saying water is essential to our health and well-being. But what are the specific benefits and drawbacks to being hydrated and being dehydrated?

One of the biggest advantages of staying fully hydrated is that it can be a major success factor for those looking to lose weight. According to Susan Pacific RD/LD,CDE, Norman Regional Health System diabetes education specialist, "Eating a diet high in 'water-rich' foods is more satisfying because they tend to look larger and with more volume, require more chewing and are absorbed more slowly by the body which helps you feel fuller longer. Water-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, oatmeal, and beans. These high water content foods are also rich in vitamins and minerals."

Other benefits to full hydration include:

  • Regulating body temperature
  • Helping to control calories
  • Lubricating your joints
  • Protecting you spinal cord
  • Flushing your system

Dehydration

On the other hand, dehydration can lead to some serious issues if not addressed. Dehydration occurs when an individual loses more water in their body than they are taking in and when lost fluids are not replaced, dehydration will occur. The negative effects of dehydration can range from mild to life threatening depening on the severity of dehydration. 

Some of the effects of dehydration include:

  • Heat injuries
  • Swelling of the brain
  • Decline in performance
  • Lethargy
  • Headaches
  • Muscle spasms
  • Constipation

Remember that weight loss and weight management is a journey unique to each individual and can take a significant amount of trial and error. Make changes one variable at a time so that you are able to determine what changes are effective at helping you reach your goals and which may not be.

If you would like an appointment with our team at Norman Regional Health System’s Journey Clinic, call us at 405-515-2049.