Good health is a chiropractor’s main concern, and your Santa Barbara chiropractor knows how essential it is for you to drink a sufficient amount of water every day. The mantra is “Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!” For humans to survive, they need air and water (in that order). An astonishing 75 percent of individuals in this country are mildly and chronically dehydrated, even though drinking a healthy amount of water would presumably be as visceral as breathing in a sufficient quantity of air. (Most people aren’t breathing enough either, but one issue at a time.) Water is unquestionably crucial for good health. Every cell, tissue, organ and system in the human body relies on the water you drink to function healthfully. Water is the essential element for saliva and the fluids surrounding the joints. Your blood is kept circulating and your body temperature and metabolism are controlled by water. Staying well-hydrated has been shown to improve nutrient absorption and toxin removal, and to reduce heartburn, hypertension, exhaustion, and headaches.

When it comes to functional challenges generated by dehydration, athletes are especially at risk. “Physiologically, their core body temperature could be higher than it should have been if they were hydrated. Their heart rate will be higher, and they’re going to perceive that they’re working harder than they actually are,” said Susan Yeargin, assistant professor of athletic training in Indiana State’s College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services.  According to researchers at Indiana State University, a high percentage of collegiate and professional athletes begin the season dehydrated, putting their health at risk even before they begin strenuous workouts. In fact, Pre-season physical examinations, in fact, found that 80 percent of football players presented with.

Wondering how much water is enough water? Chiropractors, like the majority of other health care professionals, suggest a minimum of eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day for many patients, but for our patients who are athletes, or for individuals who are overweight or exercise or work where it’s hot, we propose even more. How can you find out if you, personally, are drinking a sufficient amount of water? The color of your urine is a good indicator. You’re well-hydrated if it comes out a light, pale yellow!

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