5 signs you are not drinking enough water during cold weather

When temperatures drop, drinking enough water may be the last thing on your mind. Unlike hot weather, when thirst and sweating remind you to drink, cold weather can make you feel like you do not need as much water.

However, your body still loses water through urination, breathing and normal daily activities. Spending the day drinking tea or coffee while forgetting plain water can also leave you taking in less fluid than your body needs.

What does water do for your body?

Up to 78% of your body is made of water. According to Cleveland Clinic, your brain is made up of 73% water, and so is your heart. Your bones are 31% water, your muscles and kidneys are 79%, and your skin is 64%. A whopping 83% of water makes up your lungs.

Water is important to your body, especially in warm weather. It keeps your body from overheating. When you exercise, your muscles generate heat. To keep from burning up, your body needs to get rid of that heat.

The main way your body discards heat in warm weather is through sweat. As sweat evaporates, it cools the tissues beneath. Lots of sweating reduces your body’s water level, and this loss of fluid affects normal bodily functions.

Here are five signs that you may not be drinking enough water during the cold season.

1. You have dark-coloured urine

One of the easiest ways to notice that you may need more fluids is by checking your urine. Dark yellow urine, especially when it happens consistently, can be a sign that you need to drink more water.

Ideally, urine should generally be pale yellow. However, urine colour can also be affected by certain foods, medications and supplements, so it should not be used as the only measure of hydration.

2. You get frequent headaches

Not drinking enough fluids can contribute to headaches in some people. If you regularly develop headaches during cold days and realise that you have barely had any water, dehydration could be one of the factors.

Before reaching for painkillers, consider whether you have had enough fluids during the day.

3. You feel tired or weak

Feeling unusually tired can have many causes, including lack of sleep, stress, illness or not eating enough. But inadequate fluid intake can also contribute to fatigue.

If you have been busy at work, travelling or studying and have gone for hours without drinking water, try rehydrating and see whether you feel better.

4. Your mouth feels dry

A dry or sticky mouth can be another warning sign that you need more fluids. You may also notice that your lips feel unusually dry.

Cold and dry air can make this more noticeable, particularly if you spend a lot of time outdoors or in heated or poorly ventilated spaces.

5. You are urinating less often

Going for long periods without urinating can be a sign that you are not taking in enough fluids. Your urine may also become darker and more concentrated.

However, reduced urination can sometimes be linked to more serious health problems. If you are producing very little urine despite drinking enough fluids, or you have other worrying symptoms, seek medical attention.

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