We explore the latest hack to test
Adequate hydration is a key component of health and wellbeing. As a health coach, if there is one thing I will never stop banging on about, it’s to drink more water. But how to know if you are drinking enough water? We explore that in this article.
It’s so simple yet massively underrated element of health and vitality, and a really simple way to help support your body to increase your energy levels, function optimally and sleep better.
I feel lost if I don’t have my trusty Chilli bottle with me at all times, it’s a part of my routine and I notice how thirsty I feel when I don’t drink enough. Which of course thirst should always be your first indicator to help you know if you are drinking enough water.
Why hydration is important
Our bodies are made up of over 60% water and it’s required for pretty much every bodily function.
You can survive up to 21 days without food, but if you don’t drink water for just 2–3 days you would experience severe fatigue, organ failure and eventually death. Yes, it’s that important.
The UK Association of Dietitians says
“Water in the body is essential for many important processes to take place. From our blood system carrying essential glucose, oxygen and nutrients to cells, to the kidneys getting rid of waste products we no longer want, fluid in the body is vital to allow these to occur. It also lubricates our joints and eyes, helps our digestive system function and keeps our skin healthy”
How To Know If You Are Drinking Enough
We are often given the arbitrary number of 12–15 glasses or 1.5–2l. But this fails to take into account that each individual is unique in their body size, and activity levels and the heat is going to play a big part too.
Our hydration requirements are as unique as we are, so how do you know if you are getting enough for your body?
I think we can often overthink this, but if you are feeling thirsty that’s your body signalling you to drink more. Headaches, dizziness and constipation are also clear warning signs that your body needs more water.
I have always used the method of checking the colour of your pee. Aiming for a pale straw colour. Anything darker and you likely could do with drinking some more fluids.
Tiktok is the home of questionable health trends, but as many of us have eyes on the platform this latest self-check test ‘The Turgor Test’ is currently doing the rounds.
I tried this test for myself to see if it actually works.
Whilst the skin was definitely slower in returning to normal when I had been out and about (without my water bottle because my child has gone and lost it at sports club) and I hadn’t had a drink for a couple of hours and my pee was on the darker side.
Versus when I had been working from home and drinking regularly the skin did return slightly quicker.
But as an almost 40-year-old woman, the skin on my finger isn’t quite as elastic as it once was. So really it wasn’t super clear of the difference.
Conclusion
This is yet another hack that may have some value in extreme cases and for doctors to use on unconscious patients. Though the actual Tugor Test uses the skin on the back of the hand and not the finger.
For the average person, just be mindful of where your thirst levels are at, have a water bottle with you throughout the day and remember to drink up. We don’t need to overcomplicate it.
If you are thirsty, then drink.
Remember to take a look in the toilet after you pee and use that as your reminder to drink up.
Always keep it simple!
** Note this article may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase something using a link I shared, but at no extra cost to you. I will only ever share things that I truly believe in and love.**
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