Home remedies for dehydration

Introduction

Water, water, everywhere, even in our bodies! The water content in our body amounts to about a whopping 60%, making it one of the most essential components of the body [1]. However, we lose water in many ways – through sweat, urine, and even breathing. Since water is lost through these routes, we need to replenish it. But we sometimes forget to hydrate properly and regularly in our everyday hustle and bustle. And that, folks, is when dehydration sets in.

“Knock, knock!” “Who’s there?” Dehydration!

Dehydration is a condition in which one hasve lost more water than one has consumed [1]. Basically, when we don’t drink enough water to compensate for the water we have lost from the body, we start getting dehydrated. Let’s face it, we’ve all been there – some days we’re acing our hydration game, and on other days, we simply forget to drink and hydrate ourselves.

Did you know dehydration can also lead to electrolyte imbalance in the body? [1] Electrolytes are charged chemical species that come from minerals. [2]. Some important electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate. Electrolytes haves many functions in the body –they help in maintaining the fluid balance of body, help nerves pass on messages, and even maintain the pH balance inside the body! 

When we lack the necessary levels of these electrolytes, our body’s fluid balance is lost. But how would we know we’re dehydrated?

Signs  of dehydration

To be able to tackle mild signs of dehydration at home, we will first have to spot it creeping up on us. When dehydration starts presenting itself, we can quickly identify it using some hints and signs that it gives us. Here are a few sus signs to look out for [3]:

1. Dry mouth
   This is no rocket science. Even when we are thirsty, our mouth tends to feel dry, and it is not surprising that it feels dry when dehydrated.
2. Fatigue
   Not performing your best? There is a chance that dehydration is to blame! Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and tired.
3. Headache and cognitive function
   Dehydration can cause headaches, make us feel less alert, and reduce concentration. If we haven’t had water in quite some time and feel uncomfortable with a headache, there is a good chance that the body is dehydrated.
4. Dry skin
   Skin feeling tight and dry? It does not feel as bouncy? No brownie points for guessing the skin might be dehydrated!

All this discussion makes us wonder, “What could be the solution for these mild signs of dehydration? " It makes us look for home remedies and a quick home rehydration solution, right?

Home remedies for the first signs of dehydration

Dehydration can be difficult to go through. With the world to conquer, we wouldn’t let you, bestie, suffer!
So, is tackling dehydration at home possible? Well, not if it's advanced and intense! In such a case, rush to your doctor. But if it has just started setting in and is mild, there is a good possibility you can find some home remedies for dehydration. Read on to find out a few tips on tackling mild dehydration at home!

Milk

Yes, milk! Low-fat milk and fat-free milk contain a significant amount of water (over 90%) [3]. It also contains a great variety of nutrients and electrolytes. It is one of those pantry staples that we are sure we have at home. Grab a glass of milk, and it can help you feel better!

Buttermilk

It’s a no-brainer that our grandmothers used to have buttermilk in the afternoon in the tropical summers. Buttermilk is an easy, healthy drink that can be easily made at home in no time [4]. It has a Buttermilk has a cooling effect on the body, reduces water loss through sweat, and helps maintain normal body temperature even if the weather outside is hot. What’s more, its probiotics support good gut bacteria . It’s a win-win-win!

Coconut water

Fresh young coconut water is the stuff of dreams! [5] This coastal treat works wonders for rehydration. In fact, a study reported that coconut water rehydrates the body well, even after exercise!

Juice

While whole fruits like watermelons and strawberries can be hydrated, they may not work well when dehydration occurs. In such a case, a good choice can be to take fruits in the form of juice [3]. Give your favourite fruit a good blitz, and you’re good to go!

Electrolyte drink

Dehydration isn’t just water loss. It also involves loss of electrolytes from the body. This can be high, especially in those who do vigorous workouts or work outdoors in the sun. An electrolyte drink can be an effective solution for a quick rehydration boost.

Conclusion

Dehydration can strike anyone at any time. But letting that stop us? Nah. Dehydration can be a pain to deal with (sometimes, quite literally!), especially because it can cause fatigue, dry skin, lack of concentration, and other problems. And during the summer, the situation becomes more apparent and frequent.

But worrying is so yesterday! Here, we have discussed some great ways to deal with the first signs of dehydrations. One needn’t look for a complicated recipe to address mild signs of dehydration at home. A few pantry staples can be handy. These are very easy to make and drink, and can even be enjoyed just as is, for a delicious way to add to your daily fluid consumption. Drink away!

FAQs

- How can I fix dehydration naturally?
Addressing mild signs of dehydration is possible. Sip plenty of water, but better to supplement it with electrolytes and essential nutrients that your body loses when dehydration sets in. Other good choices are buttermilk, coconut water, or juice.

- What is the best drink for dehydration?
Water! But for a fast fix, an electrolyte drink can be effective.

- How to test dehydration at home?
Look for these first signs: dark urine, inelastic skin, and , dry mouth.  [1]. Having these symptoms may indicate that dehydration has started setting in and needs to be addressed.

- What is the fastest way to tackle dehydration?
Drinking water with added electrolytes can provide a quick way to rehydrate.

Have you tried any of these methods? Let us know!