13 Warning Signs You’re Way Too Dehydrated

Before your doctor tells you to take a laxative, he or she may first tell you to drink a lot of water. It’s key for smooth digestion as it helps keep the food moving through the colon. Not having enough water in the body may result in the large intestine soaking up water from the processed food, possibly resulting in hard stools and constipation. You may have heard about the effects of coffee on bowel movement, but recent research suggests we may have been wrong about their connection for years.

Craving something sweet may be a sign your body needs more water. Dehydration may cause problems for all organs, including the liver, which stores and releases glycogen, or glucose, the sugar your body uses for energy. The body may then crave something sweet for a quick energy boost.

Chapped lips can be caused by weather or sun exposure, certain medications or cosmetics, as well as some skin conditions. Experiencing chapped lips may also be one of the first signs you’re body isn’t getting enough water. The skin on the lips is very thin and it has no oil. So when the little water it has is lost, the skin is prone to cracking.

Wrinkles are possible, too, because water help plump the skin internally. One particular study showed that skin health improved the most in individuals who changed drinking habits from least to more than 2 litres per day. Drinking more water is just one of several things dermatologists want you to do to protect your skin.