Generally, people tend to consume less water than their regular consumption, since the body loses less water through sweating and lack of bright sunny weather makes you less thirsty. But, drinking less water may push your body to dehydration, indigestion, and detoxification, making you vulnerable to several serious health issues. 

Human body needs water to keep the body functioning properly. 70% of your body is made up of water. Water plays a vital role in digestion and metabolism, circulation of oxygen throughout your body, regulating your body temperature, maintaining cellular functions, flushing out toxins from your body through urine and sweat, and many other functions. Irrespective of the weather (cold or hot) you need to drink about 2-3 liters or 10-12 glasses of water everyday to maintain a hydrated body. 

In this article we emphasize the adverse effects of not drinking enough water during winters and how to prevent these adverse effects.

  • Altered thirst reflux - Irregular water intake or less intake affects your thirst reflux. An altered thirst reflux doesn’t let you realize that your body may be at the verge of dehydration. You can avoid affecting your thirst reflux by making sure you don’t compromise on your water intake.
  • Frequent urination and cold diuresis - Since there is a significant reduction in body sweat during winters, your body finds alternate ways to excrete wastes and fluids through your kidneys, causing frequent urination and a condition called cold diuresis. If you do not replenish the lost water, it might lead to extreme dehydration and other serious complications.
  • Dry skin - The winter air is dry and often robs moisture from your body and skin. Moreover, there is insensible water loss due to lack of sweating making you more vulnerable for dehydration.

Tips to prevent dehydration during winters

  • Set water intake reminders.
  • Keep taking small sips of water throughout the day.
  • Try having water in the form of fruit juices like melons, citrus fruits, etc.
  • Do not confuse your thirst with hunger and end up overeating.
  • If you experience any signs of mild dehydration, deliberately drink more water.
  • If your dehydration signs persist consult your doctor immediately.

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