This time of year, the outdoor temperatures are rising higher and the need for some cool, refreshing beverage is obvious. The human body is about 70% water, and maintaining this level of water in the body becomes a lifelong practice. Water is important for all the chemical processes that are happening in the body every minute. When water concentration decreases the chemical process will slow down waiting for the right amount of water to be available. One of the primary causes of fatigue and lack of energy may be the lack of water inside the body.
Brain function and clarity of thinking can decrease when not enough water is consumed. A study published by BMC Medicine in 2023 followed almost 2000 participants who were 55 – 75 yrs old. Eighty percent of the participants met the standard for adequate water intake, but the measure of water in the blood serum of fifty-six percent of the participants were at dehydration levels. There was a strong association between dehydration and lower brain function.
This study shows us that even though water was consumed, there were not enough minerals in the water to help properly balance the water inside the cells of the body compared to outside the cells. The difference in the amount of water inside the cell compared to outside the cell is controlled by the electrolytes. When the electrolytes are provided through quality foods and seasonings, the water balance will reach optimum levels that result in energy production. Energy cannot be produced without a proper water balance.
While water is the primary molecule in the body, there is a balance of minerals in the water that make the chemistry work. Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and carbon dioxide are the primary minerals used in the body for healthy cell communication. These electrolytes are very carefully controlled by the body because an imbalance of any of these minerals can cause communication problems between the cells of the body. Electrolyte imbalances are related to heart problems, kidney problems, and brain disfunction as noted in the study above.
Some will reach for coffee or a caffeinated drink to achieve an energy boost. While a brief boost will be generated from the body’s urgent response to get rid of the caffeine, the long-term result will be greater dehydration. Coffee and caffeinated drinks cause the body to become more dehydrated over time because these drinks do not provide water but stimulate the kidneys to get rid of more water. Over time fatigue increases with greater dehydration.
To promote greater energy and hydration, consider the following points:
1) Make a habit of drinking water throughout the day. A general guideline is to drink half of your body weight in fluid ounces. (A person weighing 128 pounds would drink 64 oz = 8 cups)
2) If your urine is dark yellow, this is a sign of dehydration. More water is needed
3) Consume fresh foods that contain water like cucumbers, melons, berries, and salads
4) Consider quality salts – Himalayan, Celtic, Sea salt – to be added to foods or water
5) Identify an electrolyte mix that contains calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium without any added sugar. This electrolyte mix may be used once a day to improve electrolyte balance and water absorption inside the body.
If you are struggling with fatigue and lack of energy, I can help identify the cause and provide support for improving your quality of life. Contact me to discuss your health goals for the coming year. Nutrition is designed for healing. I can help you reach greater health freedom in 2026. Contact me at nutritionproportion@gmail.com, or check out my website at www.nutritionproportion.net
