For any person, staying hydrated is a must. After all, the body is made up of 60% water, which has to be maintained by hydration. It's not just the liquid that's important, but also the nutrients present in the water. For this reason, it's recommended that a person drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.
Like many things, even hydration isn't safe from various myths and misconceptions that tend to spread like wildfire. These myths are often so strong that they stop people from drinking sufficient amounts of water, which causes dehydration and other conditions. This must be avoided at all costs, so one must separate fact from fiction.
This article will debunk some of the most common myths about hydration. These include:
1. It’s Best to Drink Electrolyte Drinks after Intense Physical Activity
TV commercials and sports drinks have convinced many people that sports drinks are a good idea after intense physical activity. The truth is that sports drinks are designed to replenish lost electrolytes and keep the body hydrated, and they're great for long-term endurance, but they're not necessary after exercise.
The body effectively replaces water and electrolytes with food and drink, and in most cases, water is enough. If a person is dehydrated, it's best to drink water or flavoured water and food.
2. Drinking Liquids Is the Only Way to Hydrate
The body is composed of 60% water, and the rest of the body is made up of various minerals and other liquids. These liquids exchange with the water in the body, which is key to hydration. However, keeping hydrated at all times isn't just about drinking tons of water. High amounts of water cause the body to eliminate extra water, which can have harmful effects.
It's also important to eat fruits and vegetables, which ship water and nutrients to the body. Examples include watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and more. These foods can also keep the body hydrated, maintain the body's water, and are good alternatives to drinks.
3. Everyone Must Drink 8 Glasses of Water a Day
As mentioned earlier, the recommended amount of water to drink every day is 8 to 10 glasses. However, different people have different needs, and hydration is no different. It's recommended that people drink according to how much they sweat and depend on their water intake through food.
For instance, a person who has a high-activity lifestyle will need more water than someone who sits behind a desk all day. While the recommended amount is 8 to 10 glasses of water, it's all relative to the person's needs, which should be considered.
4. Coffee Dehydrates You
Many people refrain from drinking coffee, thinking that it will dehydrate them. This myth is prevalent, from fast-paced lifestyles to consistent use of coffee. In reality, it's common to believe that coffee tends to dehydrate the body, but the truth is that it doesn't.
Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant, but it also contains antioxidants that can help eliminate free radicals, which contribute to body dehydration. In other words, drinking coffee in moderation is an excellent way to stay hydrated.
5. The Only Way to Remedy Dehydration Is by Drinking More Water
When you're dehydrated, your first instinct is to drink more water to replenish the body and eliminate the symptoms of dehydration. While this is the most common reaction, it's not always the best way to remedy dehydration.
The body is made up of a complex network of fluids, minerals, and vitamins that must be replenished in their entirety. If a person is dehydrated and drinks water in significant amounts, they will replenish the water in the body, but they will not fill the necessary minerals and nutrients.
Instead, it's best to replace the body's fluids and electrolytes with electrolyte and vitamin-rich foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent alternative to drinks, and they can help replenish the body's water while also providing nutrients.
Conclusion
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the topic of hydration. Remember, the body is made up of 60% water, and this must be maintained for the body to work correctly, so one must drink plenty of water. As long as it's done perfectly and the body's needs are considered, drinking water is an excellent practice.
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