Are you drinking enough water? Fatigue, headaches, dark yellow urine colour are signs you are not

Dehydration can contribute to headaches and migraines. If you find yourself reaching for pain relief more frequently than usual (Image: Unsplash)

Drinking enough water does way more than just quenching your thirst. Research suggests that one must drink at least eight 250 ml glasses of water everyday to help your body maintain fluid balance, controlling calories, helping organs function properly, maintaining body temperature, removing toxins, and delivering nutrients to different body parts. But then, since every body is different, how do you know if you are getting the hydration that you need?

Here are some simple signals that you must notice to know if you are hydrated enough:

1. Pay attention to the colour of your urine

One of the simplest indicators of your hydration status is the colour of your urine. Dark yellow or amber hues may suggest dehydration, whereas light yellow or pale straw colours indicate a well-hydrated body. Keep an eye on this visual cue throughout the day to ensure you are consistently maintaining optimal hydration levels.

2. Frequency of the urine matters

How often you visit the bathroom is another clue to your hydration status. A well-hydrated body generally prompts more frequent urination. If you find yourself making infrequent trips to the loo, it could be a sign that you need to up your water intake.

3. Don’t wait up till you start feeling thirsty

While it might seem obvious, relying solely on thirst to gauge your body's hydration needs might not be enough. Sometimes, by the time you feel thirsty, you're already on the brink of dehydration. Make a conscious effort to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel particularly parched.

4. Notice the skin elasticity

Healthy, hydrated skin has a certain elasticity. To test this, gently pinch the skin on the back of your hand and observe how quickly it returns to its normal state. If it snaps back promptly, your body is likely well-hydrated. Sluggish skin recoil, on the other hand, may indicate dehydration.

5. The state of saliva says a lot

Yes, even your saliva can provide insights into your hydration levels. A well-hydrated person generally has a moist mouth and ample saliva production. If your mouth feels dry and sticky, it might be time to reach for that water bottle.

6. Track your weight loss or gain

Sudden weight changes can be indicative of fluctuations in your hydration levels. While it's normal for weight to vary slightly due to factors like food intake and exercise, consistent weight loss without a change in diet or activity may signal dehydration. Conversely, rapid weight gain could suggest fluid retention, which may occur if your body is desperately holding on to water.

7. Monitor your physical performance

Dehydration can significantly impact your physical performance. If you find yourself feeling fatigued, dizzy, or experiencing muscle cramps during exercise, it could be a sign that your body is lacking sufficient fluids. Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for maintaining peak performance, whether you're hitting the gym or just going about your daily activities.

8. Headaches indicate dehydration

Dehydration can contribute to headaches and migraines. If you find yourself reaching for pain relief more frequently than usual, it may be worth considering whether dehydration is a contributing factor. Drinking water consistently throughout the day could potentially alleviate these symptoms.