Health Talk: 6 Foods That Can Cause Dehydration

Dehydration is a major concern, especially during the dry season and many people end up in hospital or bed-ridden, mainly because they are unaware about what could cause severe dehydration. Research has found that foods we eat can also dehydrate us, here are 6 foods and habits that can make you dehydrated.



1. Energy drinks:
Many people invest in energy drinks thinking it will improve their performances and keep them hydrated but energy drinks actually dehydrate you. “Energy drinks have high sugar content that creates a high osmotic pressure in your gut and promotes water loss. In some cases, it can also cause osmotic diarrhea”.

2. Low carbohydrate diet:

“The first thing we’re told while trying to lose weight is to go on a low carbohydrate diet, however, not many people are aware that this ‘healthy diet’ can actually cause dehydration, if your diet mainly consists of low carbohydrate foods and vegetables, it actually promotes water loss from your body, because low-carb foods is usually high in potassium so remember to increase your daily water intake if you have cut down on your carbohydrate consumption”.

3. Lemon juice:

Even though lemon juice has several health benefits but if one overdo it on a daily basis, it could have a diuretic effect on the body, which means frequent urination and it can leads to dehydration. “While adding lemon juice to warm water or your cup of green tea, remember that moderation is key”.

4. Salty foods:

High sodium intake can disturb the body’s water balance which will lead to dehydration because salt absorbs water in the body and it could also lead to water retention and bloating. So reduce your intake of junk food, which usually has extremely high sodium levels.

5. Deep fried foods:

“Have you noticed how your throat feels dry and you feel a lot thirstier after eating deep fried food? while it is no surprise that consuming too much deep fried is not good for you, another reason to cut down on it is that it can also cause severe dehydration”.

6. Coffee:

Coffee is another liquid that most people often consume and it also has a diuretic effect, excessive coffee consumption will only promote water loss and causes severe dehydration, headaches and other symptoms to the body.

• Tips

• Always drink at least eight glasses of water a day to prevent dehydration

• Drink plenty of water before, while, and after you are active. This is very important when it's hot out and when you do intense exercise. You can drink water or rehydration drinks.

• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.

• Change into dry clothing as soon as you can if your clothes get soaked with sweat. Never exercise in a rubber suit.