Dehydration Can Affect Physical Performance
Even relatively modest fluid loss can make physical activity feel more difficult.
When you exercise, your body loses water through sweat. If you don’t replace enough of that fluid, you may experience increased fatigue and reduced physical performance.
This is particularly important during hot weather or prolonged exercise.
Drinking regularly throughout physical activity can help replace fluids lost through sweating.
Your Body Loses Water in More Ways Than You Think
Sweating isn’t the only way you lose water.
Your body also loses fluid through urine, breathing, and bowel movements. Illness can increase these losses considerably.
Vomiting and diarrhea, for example, can cause rapid fluid loss. Fever and heavy sweating can also increase the amount of water your body needs.
That’s why staying hydrated can become especially important when you’re sick.
Do You Need Exactly Eight Glasses a Day?
You’ve probably heard the familiar advice to drink eight glasses of water every day.
But hydration needs aren’t identical for everyone.
The amount of fluid a person needs can vary according to factors such as body size, activity level, climate, diet, pregnancy, age, and health status.
You also obtain water from foods and from beverages other than plain water.
