We are at the greatest risk of dehydration when we are too hot or too dry, have limited access to water or lose more water than usual. Warm or dry environments, such as centrally-heated homes, tend to increase our need for fluid. We can lose more fluid through sweating (due to exercise or hot climates), or through bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea.
The colour of our urine can be a clear indicator of whether we’re taking in enough fluids. We should aim to produce urine that’s straw coloured or paler but, if it’s any darker than this, it may suggest that we are dehydrated.
Dehydration, especially chronic dehydration, results in the production of urine which has a higher concentration of minerals and waste products. This can lead to the formation of crystals which can affect kidney function and contribute to certain kidney diseases, such as kidney stones.
Research suggests that drinking plain water, in particular, can have a potentially protective effect on kidney function.
