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5 Common Myths about Staying Hydrated
..................................................................................................... Water, making up more than 60% of our body, obviously plays a vital role in our metabolism. Water is needed in regulating body temperature, carrying nutrients and removing wastes from our body. Clearly staying hydrated is essential; however, there are a number of common myths that you have to be well-versed about. Myth #1: Drinking Gallons of Water is Healthy : Many people, especially athletes, think that the more you drink water, the better you’ll be in shape. It turns out however, that too much water affects the kidney and cause far more damage that being slightly dehydrated. The key is drinking moderate amounts of water whenever you’re thirsty. Myth #2: 8 Cups of Water a Day Is What You Need : This widespread rumor is certainly a myth. The amount of water your body needs depends on multiple factors including the amount of exercise you do, your size and the weather. Let your thirst instinct decide how many cups you need per day. Myth #3: Drinking Till Your Urine Is Clear : If you seek crystal clear piss, you’re drinking excessive amounts of water. Similarly, dark yellow piss is a sign of dehydration. What you need is a pale yellow color.
Myth #4: Coffee and Tea Don’t Hydrate You : It’s true that caffeine found in tea and coffee is diuretic, but that doesn’t mean that it consumes all the water in the cup. You do benefit from at least 25% of the total amount. Myth #5: Drink Water to Avoid Muscle Cramps : Cramps are a sign of fatigue muscles. The reason though is not dehydration as it can’t chiefly be the cause of the cramps. If you experience cramps during exercise, you may need to go slow or drink up sport drinks with minerals such as potassium, calcium, or magnesium. Deficiency of such minerals causes muscle cramps.
Staying Hydrated, Health