Dehydration in winter worsens skin and brain function – nutritionist Popova

In winter, the usual bottle of water on the table sometimes remains untouched, even though the body continues to need liquid. Cold reduces the feeling of thirst, creating the illusion of satiety. As a result, a person often does not notice how he gradually goes into a state of hidden dehydration, an expert in nutrition and nutrition reports. Yulia Popova.

Why winter dehydration is especially insidious

Our body loses water regardless of the season, but in winter this process becomes less noticeable. We barely sweat, so it feels like our water reserves remain normal. In fact, in the cold, the body loses moisture through breathing and also removes fluid more actively. Experts call this phenomenon cold diuresis: when the ambient temperature drops, the blood vessels in the skin narrow, it becomes more difficult for blood to circulate on the surface, and the kidneys speed up the excretion of fluid to compensate for changes in pressure.

Research confirms that lack of water in winter often affects brain function. Even mild dehydration can reduce concentration and impair short-term memory. These changes are not always promptly obvious, but gradually affect the quality of daily activities, performance and ability to maintain focus.

Without enough water, your skin also suffers. Cold wind, low humidity outside and dry indoor air create conditions under which the skin loses moisture faster. This leads to peeling, tightness and reduced effectiveness of usual skincare products.The mucous membranes of the nose and throat are also affected, making the body more vulnerable to seasonal viruses.

An equally noticeable consequence of dehydration is loss of strength.Water participates in energy processes at the cellular level, ensuring the normal course of metabolic reactions. If there is not enough fluid, the metabolism slows down and the body reacts with fatigue, decreased activity and general lethargy.

Another undesirable effect is increased appetite. The centers of thirst and hunger are located nearby in the brain, and a lack of water is often interpreted by it as a need for food. This makes it easy to overeat, especially with a winter diet rich in hearty foods. This behavior leads to weight gain and unstable blood sugar levels over time.

What does maintaining water balance do in winter?

When a person drinks enough water, the body quickly adapts to the stress of the cold season. The skin condition is one of the first to respond to positive changes: elasticity improves, dullness disappears, and the tendency to dryness decreases. Internal hydration helps the skin better withstand temperature changes and aggressive weather conditions.

Hydration also supports normal metabolism. Scientists note that just half a liter of water is enough to speed up metabolism by about a third over the next half hour. In winter, when the body experiences additional stress due to cold and dense nutrition, maintaining a sufficient level of hydration is especially critically important for maintaining energy and overall well-being.

Staying Hydrated in Winter

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when it’s cold outside.But staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer! Your body still loses fluids, even when you aren’t sweating as much. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Winter Hydration Matters

Several factors can lead to dehydration in winter:

• Dry air holds less moisture, increasing fluid loss through your skin and breath.
• You might not feel as thirsty as you do in warmer months.
• Heating systems can dry out the air indoors.
• Increased layers of clothing can cause you to overheat and sweat, even in cold weather.

Good Choices for Winter hydration

Here are some drinks and foods that can help you stay hydrated:

• Water is always a great choice!
• Herbal teas add variety to your diet.
• Soups and juicy vegetables help increase your daily fluid intake.
• Apps can definitely help you remember to drink regularly.

Things to Watch Out For

Keep these points in mind:

• Too much tea and coffee can actually cause you to lose fluids.
• Flavored drinks often contain added sugar.
• If you don’t make drinking a regular habit, it can be hard to start.

Tips for Staying Hydrated in Winter

1. Drink regularly: take small sips throughout the day.

2. Warm water can be more appealing in cold weather.

3. Eat foods with high water content.

4. set reminders to drink water.

5. Drink water before meals and when the temperature changes to help your body adjust.

To help your skin stay moisturized, consider drinks that enhance hydration from the inside out. This can improve skin health during the cold season.