Why do We Feel Thirsty?
Most of the time, we only consider ourselves thirsty when we feel the urge to drink and grab a glass of ice-cold water or soda. But do you know that there are more signs that our body is low on fluid? And most of the time, we fail to see these signs. So apart from feeling parched, here are some signs that your body is seriously dehydrated:
-
Dry mouth as a result of reduced saliva production
-
Dark yellow urine as the kidneys conserve fluid, leading to darker and more concentrated urine
-
Feelings of lightheadedness or fatigue caused by a drop in blood pressure
-
The skin may become dry and lose its elasticity
-
Muscle cramps especially during physical activities
-
Constipation due to lack of fluid and reduced activity in the digestive system
-
Headache, especially in people who are sensitive to changes in fluid balance.
Why Do We Feel Thirsty?
The sensation of thirst is generated by the lamina terminalis, a structure located in the hypothalamus region of the brain that acts as the body's thirst center. The lamina terminalis plays an important role in regulating fluid balance and body temperature, and it is also involved in the regulation of thirst and hunger. It triggers the sensation of thirst to prompt the individual to drink.
The lamina terminalis contains specialized cells that can detect changes in blood osmolarity, which is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the blood; and can trigger the release of hormones that regulate fluid balance and thirst. When our body is low on fluid, the hormone vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone, is released and acts on the kidneys to conserve fluid, while also signaling to the brain to increase the sensation of thirst.
What Are The Immediate Effects Of Drinking Water After A Long Thirst?
Beyond immediate relief of thirst and normalized body temperature, drinking water after a period of dehydration can bring about several immediate effects, including:
-
Improved energy levels
-
Better cognitive function as drinking water can help to improve focus and mental clarity
-
Reduced symptoms of dehydration, such as headache, dry mouth, and muscle cramps
-
Drinking water can help to stimulate urine production, which helps to remove waste and excess fluid from the body with increased urine production.
It's important to drink water regularly, especially in hot or physically demanding environments, to prevent dehydration and maintain optimal fluid balance in the body. Additionally, drinking water after a long period of thirst may require drinking larger amounts of water initially, as well as drinking water slowly over a period of time, to avoid over hydration and potential health issues.
Juice, Soda, or Water: Which Is The Best Drink To Quench Your Thirst?
When it comes to quenching thirst, water is still the best option. Juice and soda contain sugar and other added ingredients, which can actually lead to further dehydration. In addition, many juices and sodas are high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
Water is the most effective drink for hydrating the body because it is calorie-free, readily available, and contains no added ingredients that can lead to dehydration. It is also the most affordable and readily available option, making it an excellent choice for staying hydrated
If you are thirsty, it is best to drink water instead of juice or soda. If you are looking for additional flavor, consider adding a slice of lemon, lime, or other fruit to your water, or try drinking flavored water or infused water.
Why Is Drinking Water Refreshing?
Drinking water can be refreshing as it hydrates the body and restores fluid balance especially on a hot weather or after an intense physical activity. Drinking water has that cooling effect when it reaches the mouth and throat; and relieve the feelings of heat or discomfort. It does more than just quench our thirst. The overall refreshing feeling after drinking water can come from the cleansing effects of water after toxins and other wastes are flushed from our body which can improve overall health and well-being. Drinking water can help to improve blood flow, which can increase oxygen delivery to the cells and tissues and improve overall energy levels. Overall, drinking water can help to replenish fluids and improve hydration, which can lead to a refreshed and revitalized feeling.
What Is The Best Water To Drink?
The best water to drink is clean and safe drinking water from a reliable source. Water supplied to your tap by your local water supplier is regulated by the government and must meet certain standards for safety and quality. In many places, tap water is fluoridated to help prevent tooth decay and chlorinated for disinfection. Depending on the quality of water source, some water may contain more chlorine. However, consumption of these chemicals may pose harm in the long run. The best way is to filter your tap water to remove impurities, such as chlorine, sediment, and heavy metals.
Choose a home water filtration system that is easy to install and use without requiring special tools or skills; durable to withstand normal use and wear; and affordable and value for money. But most importantly, choose a filter that is made with safe and non-toxic materials and effectively removes impurities, such as chlorine, heavy metals, and other harmful contaminants, to improve the taste and quality of your drinking water like SJ Wave Faucet Water Filter. Check out their website to find out more about how you can have clean and safe home and drinking water.