Staying well-hydrated

A thirst for knowledge; a thirst for power; people get thirsty for lots of things. But that’s not surprising when you consider that our bodies are between 50 per cent (women) and 65 per cent (men) water. It’s so important to stay hydrated.

But dehydration can happen to almost anyone, anytime of the year, whether or not they’re playing sports or working out. It hits when you lose more than 2 per cent of your body weight through a water deficit. The signs are thirst (if you’re working out, drink before thirst sets in!) and cold legs (especially if you’re not working out) progressing to dark urine, dizziness, cramps, constipation, headache and flaky skin.

While it can knock anyone off his or her feet — and into the emergency room — it’s especially a concern for those who work out or avoid drinking water and older folks, who may forget to drink water regularly. (Remind your near and dear.)

Dehydration can upset the sodium/water balance in your blood and body, and that destabilizes your heartbeat (your heart is 73 per cent water) as well as the health of your muscles (75 per cent water), brain and all other organs.

How much water does it take to stay hydrated? The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies says thirst can be your guide, but about 91 ounces of water daily (80 per cent from drinking; 20 per cent from foods) should be enough for women; 125 ounces a day for men. Those who live in hot climates or exercise may need more.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. To live your healthiest, tune into “The Dr. Oz Show” or visit www. sharecare.com.