8 Common Myths About Dehydration

Water plays an integral role in nearly every biological process in the body. Everything from controlling the body’s thermostat to regulating blood pressure to taking out the trash relies on water to get the job done. Yet, for such a life-and-death nutrient, most of us take water for granted.

Sure, we know we should imbibe, but how much? Does the water in caffeinated drinks, like coffee and soda, count for or against us? And should you drink before you’re thirsty or wait for your thirst signal to kick in?

“A lot of what we think about water is sheer guesswork,” says Elson Haas, MD, an integrated-medicine physician in San Rafael, Calif., and the author, most recently, of Staying Healthy with Nutrition (Celestial Arts, 2006). “A lack of research has led to a lack of knowledge. In fact, most of what people think they know about water isn’t even true.”

To get beyond confusing water myths and delve into some commonsense wisdom, we tapped several experts on water intake and human health. Here are the ins and outs of keeping your body well watered.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Linda E.

10:34AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

Interesting. I'm glad to see that the "8 glasses a day" is a myth.

send a green star

Belinda M.

10:36PM PST on Nov 14, 2011

Do not disturb me! I am actively focusing on hydration.

Joe J.

11:09AM PDT on Nov 3, 2011

Another excellent article!... I already knew all of this info., but now here's proof in writing of what I've been telling people for many years!

Rachel P.

3:45PM PDT on Sep 7, 2011

Hooray for knowledge!

Krista R.

11:04PM PDT on Aug 17, 2011

Very good info!

Lynn Marie M.

5:15PM PDT on Aug 14, 2011

Thanks.

Sheri S.

2:51PM PDT on Aug 7, 2011

Very interesting article. I can say that I don't think I will ever be dehydrated, unless I am stuck somewhere I can't get water. I live with a bottle of water by my side every where I am. I take them in the car and just about everywhere I go. I have always drunk a lot of water and foresee myself continuing.

Craig Z.

6:13AM PDT on Aug 7, 2011

You have to be sure to injest electrolytes like sodium and potassium along with water. Too much water can remove vital salts from your body that are needed for nerve and muscle function.

mariana c.

7:35AM PDT on Aug 5, 2011

Excellent article, thanks....very interesting

Chris R.

1:24PM PDT on Aug 4, 2011

Thanks Megan!~