Dr. Venske’s Insight into Dehydration

Hello everyone,

We’ve had some really steamy days already this spring, so it might be a good time to review the basics on hydration. My renal (kidney) physiology professor once stated that in her opinion, roughly 75% of our population are chronically dehydrated. If that’s the case in general, obviously a hot day can bring those underlying issues to a head. Here are just a few facts and concepts to be familiar with to not only keep you from serious dehydration and heat related concerns, but also push your health closer to optimal.

Fact # 1: Not all water is created equally.

Municipal tap water often contains amounts of chlorine and fluoride that may be harmful in a variety of ways. There are as many as 60,000 chemicals present in our water that aren’t even tested for. Well water is generally safe. However, it is wise to check for leaching of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides if you live near farmland. H. Pylori, the cause of many cases of gastrointestinal ulcers and stomach cancer, is also prevalent in well water, and should be tested for routinely. When it comes to water in bottles labeled “spring water” , treat it with skepticism, as it may be crudely filtered tap water.

Bottom Line: Water needs to be filtered, preferably with a reverse osmosis/carbon filtration system.

Fact # 2: Water in its “natural” form, contains many minerals, which are essential for optimal health.

Because I drink reverse osmosis water, I have taken to adding trace minerals back into it. These include magnesium, chloride (not chlorine), potassium, and sulfate, just to name a few. Sometimes I’m not sure whether to laugh or cry at how much work it has become to stay healthy.

Bottom line: Reverse osmosis water takes out “good” minerals too. Adding the “good”  minerals back will enhance your health. We sell these at the office. Ask for Concentrace Mineral Drops.

Fact # 3: Chronic low level dehydration can contribute to many health problems.

Feeling tired? Having headaches? Trouble losing weight? Drink more water. Water is a crucial component of thousands of chemical reactions in our body and if it’s even a little low, you will suffer the consequences. Given the level of stress and distraction most of us experience, we may miss the body’s thirst signals.

Bottom line: Consume ½ your body weight in ounces of quality water each day

Fact # 4: Hot summer days equal extra risk. It is almost impossible to keep up with the body’s need for water and minerals when combining a high heat index with heavy physical exertion.

Heat stroke (body temperature over 105 degrees F) is a medical emergency, and the 911 system should be used .

Bottom line: When in doubt, opt to do less than more on hot, humid days.   Remember, water with minerals, especially sodium is to be consumed in copious amounts on these days.

So, have a safe and happy summer, and I’ll talk to you this fall.

Yours in health,

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