Drink smart tips

What your body’s water gauge says about you There’s a water gauge on your car’s dashboard but your body’s not fitted with a window to display your hydration levels. Or is it? The list of symptoms below will seem familiar. Most of us instinctively know the signs of mild dehydration but too often we’re prepared to ignore them. Have a read and see which ones you experience at least weekly. 7 signs of dehydration

1. Dry skin
2. Headaches
3. Thirst/dry mouth
4. Daytime sleepiness
5. Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
6. Feeling of exhaustion after exercise
7. Spending less than six ‘pennies’ per day

These signs are your body’s water gauge and ignoring them is sure to have an impact on your wellbeing, even if you think you’re functioning normally. And it’s not just water your body is calling for. Electrolytes orchestra Your body extracts electrolytes from food and drink and these natural chemicals (potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium) all perform vital functions in the brain and body. We only need them in small amounts but the body will react if it goes without them for long. Drinking smart can help with concentration levels, may help you reduce the number of painkillers you take and ensures you recover quickly after exercise. Drinking smart may also help keep serious health problems at bay.