Can’t Sleep? Battling Anxiety and Fatigue? How Hydration Plays a Vital Role in Cooler Weather!

In the realm of healthcare, proper hydration is often overlooked. With over 29 years of experience as a Chiropractic Physician, I frequently encounter patients facing various health issues like fatigue, muscle and joint pain, anxiety, and sleep difficulties. A common thread among these conditions is inadequate hydration. Many individuals rely on filtered or bottled water, failing to recognize the importance of essential minerals and electrolytes for their overall health.

So, how do we define dehydration? It occurs when the body loses more fluids than it absorbs, disrupting the balance of vital electrolytes and minerals. This imbalance can lead to serious health consequences, affecting everything from nerve conduction to muscle contractions. Electrolytes, which are positively charged minerals, play a crucial role in maintaining this equilibrium. Unfortunately, common sources of hydration, particularly reverse osmosis water, often lack these essential minerals, exacerbating the issue.

The main electrolytes in our bodies include sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Sodium is particularly significant, regulating fluid balance. An increase in sodium concentration due to dehydration can lead to blood pressure issues and dizziness, especially in Arizona’s extreme heat. Furthermore, many people consume insufficient, or the wrong type, of salt. Common table salt is typically bleached and depleted of nutrients, which can be detrimental to one’s health. In the dry Arizona climate, individuals often require more sodium to maintain electrolyte balance, particularly during hotter months.

Fatigue is one of the earliest signs of chronic dehydration, often accompanied by muscle cramps and spasms. Potassium levels, critical for muscle and cardiac function, can drop significantly without proper hydration. Furthermore, sleep disturbances and anxiety are significant symptoms that arise when dehydration affects neurological health. Many patients suffering from anxiety may see improvement when they address their hydration status before resorting to medication.

Effective hydration is essential for kidney function, aiding in the filtration of waste and the maintenance of electrolyte balance. Dehydration can compromise circulation, leading to thicker blood and increased cardiovascular risks, including heart palpitations. Severe cases can even result in confusion or seizures due to improper nerve signal transmission.

To combat hydration-related issues, consider investing in a home water filter that retains vital minerals. If you currently use a filter that strips these minerals, adding liquid or powdered minerals to your water can help. One simple solution is using Himalayan Sole, which provides necessary minerals without causing high blood pressure. It’s vital to avoid sugary electrolyte drinks, as sugar counteracts the beneficial effects of electrolytes.

For additional information on hydration, minerals, or water purification options, feel free to contact my office for a consultation.

Leisa-Marie Grgula, DC
Chiropractic Physician
Accurate Care Medical Wellness Center
18261 N. Pima Rd. Ste. #115
(480) 584-3955