Importance of hydration
Water is essential for the human body at any stage of life because it helps regulate body temperature, keeping the skin hydrated and elastic, lubricating joints and organs and maintaining good digestion.
The health sector highlights that one of the adverse consequences of inadequate water intake is dehydration, whose symptoms depend on the degree of water deficiency but which, in general, present dizziness, headache, weakness and fatigue, dry mouth and lack of appetite
¿How much water should I drink?
In sedentary or moderately active people and under normal temperature conditions, the body loses water through urine, feces, breathing and sweating. As physical activity increases and in conditions of different temperatures, sweat contributes to the loss of body water.
Therefore, it is recommended to consume 2 to 3 liters of water daily, although needs may vary according to age, sex, diet and type of physical activity.
The water necessary to cover daily requirements comes from the foods and drinks that are ingested, in addition to that produced by the metabolism. Therefore, it is important that every day we consider drinking at least 2 liters of water as part of our habits. .
¿What happens if I don't drink water during my work day?
According to data from the Water and Health Research Institute, when dehydration exceeds 2% of body weight, performance and work capacity decrease, and even more so if working in the heat.
Dehydration also affects decision-making and cognitive function, resulting in a decrease in productivity and an increase in occupational risk. Correct hydration can prevent many workplace accidents and situations of low performance, as well as improve workers' sense of well-being.
Thus, a lack of internal hydration can often go unnoticed and cause problems such as: headaches, fatigue, lack of concentration and cramps. There are certain symptoms caused by dehydration that are easy to detect, such as:
- dry mouth
- Weakness
- Headache
- Skin dryness
- Confusion
- Fatigue
It is vital to consume fluids during a workday, it is important to go to work well hydrated and replenish the appropriate amount of water throughout the day according to the type, duration and intensity of the work we do, as well as rest periodically to rehydrate and replenish energy.