Why your pee matters
- Deena Westmaas
- Apr 3, 2021
- 3 min read
You might have heard the phrase “You are optimally hydrated if your urine is clear”.
This is a well-known phenomenon that people live by to check if they are hydrated throughout the day. What people might not be aware of is that this is a common misconception that might put you in a hospital.
Drinking enough water to stay hydrated every day is common knowledge. Since the human body is comprised of 60% water, it requires enough water daily in order to survive. Many common symptoms of dehydration include headaches, feeling faint, bad breath, dark yellow urine and extreme thirst. What many people might not know is that water has a direct relationship to keep you moving. There is a greater possibility of injury when the tissue of muscles, organs, ligaments and tendons is not properly hydrated.
How do you monitor if you’re hydrating adequately?
A simple way to check if you are hydrated is to check the color of your urine. The color of you pee is an important indicator when evaluating your hydration. As a society we were always taught to keep drinking water until your urine is clear, but this is actually one reason as to why people are suffering from dehydration. Yes, you read that right! If your pee is completely clear, you are drinking an excessive amount of water. The reason why people end up dehydrated when drinking water excessively is because it can throw off your electrolyte balance within your body. Electrolytes are salts and minerals like, magnesium, potassium, sodium and chloride. Electrolytes ensure to direct water to those areas in your body that need it the most. They also maintain optimal fluid balance on a molecular level and balance out blood pressure.
Over-drinking water can also lead to potential life-threatening hyponatremia. An event where the body has a low sodium concentration. Symptoms might include dizziness, in proper balance and brain fog. If not treated seriously, the body might suffer from acute hyponatremia, which can result in rapid brain swelling or a coma.
How to regulate hydration without drinking water excessively?
If you hydrate sufficiently and realize that your urine runs clear you might want to replenish your body with extra electrolytes. The best way to increase electrolyte intake is by resorting to natural products, however you can also purchase supplements. Five inexpensive foods when you need an electrolyte boost include:
· Watermelon
· Coconut (water)
· Bananas
· Avocado
· Milk
These products contain high levels of potassium and magnesium. Two important minerals that the body needs in order to function properly. A great way to ensure proper electrolyte balance is to include these foods in your daily diet. A great way to maintain proper hydration after a workout is to replenish the body with electrolytes.
Ultimately, disregard the old saying of drinking until your pee runs clear. Make sure to eat a healthy diet filled with fruits and veggies that contain water and to properly hydrate with at least two liters of water every day.
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