We all know that we are made up of around 75 % water. We lose about 2.5 litres of it every day. So drinking water is essential. Despite this, many people drink far too little on a daily basis - often without even realising it. Dehydration happens gradually and can cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes serious sings. Here are 10 clear symptoms that you are not drinking enough water - and number 7 in particular is often a surprise!

1. You suffer from constant headaches

One of the most common causes of headaches is dehydration. When your body is dehydrated, the blood vessels in your brain constrict - causing a pulsing or pressing headache. So before you reach for a pill, try drinking a big glass of water first.

2. Your skin feels dry

Water is the cheapest and most effective 'beauty product'. Too little fluid makes your skin look dry and scaly. When the body is dehydrated, it prioritises the vital organs - the skin is not the first priority.

3. Constant tiredness

If you don't drink enough water, your energy level will drop. Without enough fluids, your blood volume drops and your heart has to work harder to pump oxygen and nutrients around your body - making you feel tired.

4. Concentration issues

Even a small fluid deficit of around two per cent can lead to a noticeable decline in mental performance. Your brain becomes 'foggy', you forget more easily and you are less able to concentrate. This is a real disadvantage, especially at work or university.

5. Dark urine

A clear indicator: if your urine is dark yellow or amber, you are probably not drinking enough. Ideally, it should be pale yellow and almost transparent. Dark urine is a signal to the body: Watch out, you are dehydrated!

6 Dry mouth and sticky tongue

If your mouth feels dry and your tongue feels sticky, this is a warning sign. The lack of water reduces the flow of saliva, which can have a negative effect on oral flora and dental health.

7. Sweet cravings

Here's a shocker: many people confuse thirst with hunger - especially cravings for sugar. When your body is dehydrated, it needs quick energy because water is involved in converting glycogen into glucose. Frequent 'snacking' can therefore simply be thirst!

8. Muscle cramps

Too little water has a negative effect on electrolyte balance. This can lead to painful cramps in the legs or arms, especially after exercise or on hot days. Magnesium and other electrolytes only work properly when you have enough water in your body. By the way: Some mineral waters are excellent sources of magnesium (see here).

9. Constipation

Water is essential for proper digestion. Without enough fluid, stools become hard and transport in the intestines slows down - the result: unpleasant constipation. By the way, water rich in sulphates can help.

10. Dizziness and fainting

Without enough fluids, your blood pressure will drop, which can cause dizziness and fainting - especially if you stand up quickly or after exercise. This is a dangerous sign to take seriously.

Conclusion

Listen to your body's signals. These symptoms are your body's silent language. It is often enough to drink more water regularly and consciously to reduce or avoid many of these symptoms.

My tip as a Water Sommelier: Pay attention not only to the quantity but also to the quality of your water. Mineral water with the right mineral composition can also support your health - and often tastes much better than you think.

Many greetings

Timo Bausch

Certified Water Sommelier

PS: If you want to learn more about mineral and healing waters and find out which mineral water tastes best to you, order an #AWESOMM TASTING BOX for your home today.

About Timo Bausch

My fascination with mineral waters began in 2016 during my training as a Water Sommelier. Since then, I have been exploring the characteristics and diversity of water. In addition to pairing water with food, wine, coffee and other beverages, I offer the creation of water menus for restaurants and hotels. Furthermore, it is also important to me to draw attention to the importance of drinking water.