Methods of Dehydration

Dehydration can be a scary and debilitating experience. Doctors generally suggest drinking eight or nine cups of water a day, so the excess loss of water can have extremely adverse effects on the body. Some effects include dry mouth, cramps, nausea, loss of consciousness, vomiting and heart palpitations. Certain practices or types of food and drink tend to cause dehydration.

Conditions that Cause Dehydration

• Sometimes, physical conditions lead to a loss of water that dehydrates the body. While these conditions are often out of your control, you should be mindful to replenish the body with fluids if experiencing these conditions.

  The most common cause of dehydration is diarrhea. An inordinate amount of water is secreted with every bowel movement, and with diarrhea causing an extreme increase in bowel movements, dehydration can easily set in. With the stomach discomfort brought about by diarrhea, people often shy away from drinking more water. You should continue to drink water, but eat solid foods such as crackers, bananas or toast to absorb the water and help subdue the effects of diarrhea.

  Vomiting is another cause of dehydration. A lot of water is lost every time you vomit, so replenishing fluids is integral.

  Severe burns also cause dehydration. Damaged skin secretes bodily fluid, and while healing you should compensate for this loss of fluid by drinking more water.

Practices that Cause Dehydration

• The leading cause of dehydration is exercise. During workouts, the body secretes large amounts of sweat. If you don't replenish the body with water or a sports drink you will experience many of the effects of dehydration. Athletic organizations now mandate that competitors be allowed time for water breaks to prevent dehydration.

Foods and Drinks that Cause Dehydration

• Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and caffeine tend to most easily dehydrate the body. Never consume soft drinks such as sodas and fruit drinks before, during or shortly after a workout. During these times, the body needs as much water as it can get and consuming these types of fluids will be counterproductive.