Water is vital to the human body. The life-sustaining liquid plays a crucial role in almost every tissue, organ, and system’s function. The human brain is no exception.

The Importance Of Keeping The Brain Hydrated

An adequate water supply to the brain is necessary to help the principle systemic organ and chief component of the body’s central nervous system execute numerous key functions including:

Waste Processing

Some might not realize that waste products collect inside the brain’s tissues as much as any other organ. Excessive buildup of these toxins could precipitate diminished function. Water plays a crucial role in helping the organ rinse and away and ultimately remove said waste materials.

Blood Circulation

Water promotes proper blood flow both to and inside the brain. The smooth processing of blood is integral to ensuring the brain receives needed nutrients like minerals and vitamins, in addition to oxygen.

Hormone Balancing

Without sufficient water quantities, the brain would be unable to help the body maintain important hormonal balances. Most notably, the brain is a key figure in regulating cortisol.

This substance is known as the stress hormone because it is released when the body faces any type of tension or danger. That said, when secreted in excessive concentrations, cortisol could precipitate numerous untoward and potentially serious problems.

Central Nervous System Component Protection

Sufficient fluid levels help protect the brain and spinal cord. Inadequate water supplies leave said components more susceptible to injury and illness.

Brain Cell Creation

Water also carries out the paramount function of brain cell creation. Brain cells are known scientifically as neurons and the process of neurogenesis occurs when new brain cells are made.

Cognitive Function

Above all, water is vital to helping the brain carry out the functions it is famous for, such as executing thoughts, decision making, concentration, and memory retention.

Impact Of Dehydration On The Brain

A lack of water inside the body and brain may yield serious consequences. Even slight dehydration can adversely impact the afflicted subject’s demeanor and ability to render rational thoughts.

However, as dehydration progresses, its influence over the brain can be far more precarious. Moderate to severe dehydration could result in hazardous occurrences, such as confusion, agitation, anxiety, depression, and even aggressiveness.

The most dangerous instances could result in brain damage and potentially permanent or fatal events like brain cell damage and seizures.

Symptoms Of Dehydration

Dehydration impacts other parts of the body. Avoiding its impact on the brain may hinge on recognizing physical manifestations including:

• Increasing thirst
• Dry mouth
• A lack of eye tears
• Decreased urine output
• Dry or irritated skin
• Dizziness
• Excessive perspiration

Above all, the early stages of dehydration often precipitates tiredness that could quickly progress into marked weakness and fatigue.

Those experiencing any of these symptoms are implored to drink significant amounts of water or beverages containing electrolytes and important vitamins and nutrients.

Preventing Dehydration

Sometimes, prevention can prove difficult. Illnesses like diarrhea, cancer, hormonal disorders, and infections causing elevated body temperature and heightened sweating are occasionally unavoidable.

However, some cases of dehydration might be averted through efforts like:

Consuming Adequate Amounts Of Water

The surest way to avoid dehydration-related brain issues is to consume abundant water concentrations. Researchers maintain that women should drink more than 11 cups per day while men are urged to intake a little more than 15 cups in a given 24-hour period. However, these figures are arbitrary and might be influenced by other factors, such as a person’s age, general health, weight, and physical activity level.

Additionally, water intake should be increased under special circumstances. Physicians and medical researchers stress that one should drink greater quantities during exercise, periods of intense physical or emotional stress, temporary ailments, when the internal or external temperature is high, or if the subject in question has a systemic malady like diabetes.

Eat Hydrating Foods

Some people might not realize that several foods contain appreciable water quantities including:

• Watermelon
• Strawberries
• Peaches
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Cucumbers
• Grapefruit
• Celery

Other water-rich foods and beverages include soups, yogurt, cottage cheese, and milk.

Limiting One’s Intake Of Dehydrating Products

Certain foods and beverages actually sap the body of its water content. Said items include caffeinated drinks like coffee and soft drinks, and those containing measurable alcohol quantities.

Never Ignoring Physical Manifestations

Healthcare providers stress and reiterate that even the most mildest symptoms of dehydration should not be overlooked. The moment one notices these occurrences, they are strongly encouraged to drink water as soon as possible and seek medical attention if said action does not alleviate associated problems.

Contacting Us

Those living in or around the Birmingham, Alabama region yearning to live their best possible life are urged to contact us. Our team of experienced, patient-friendly healthcare team is well-versed in hormone balancing techniques, attaining a harmonious gut flora, and immune system boosting.

For further information about us or our practice, please call 205-352-9141.