As winter turns to spring, we will inevitably spend a lot more time outdoors– which is a very good thing! But with more inviting weather and increased activity also comes an increased need to stay hydrated. As it turns out, drinking enough water will not only quenche your thirst. It may also help you prevent Breast Cancer.
Signs You Are Dehydrated
Did you know that there are clear symptoms of dehydration? They may include [1]:
-thirst
-dry mouth,
-cool, dry skin
-lack of urination
-muscle cramps
-rapid heart beat
-sleepiness
-irritability
-slow cognition
-bad breath
-head aches
In fact, some estimates say that most minor headaches are due to dehydration [2]. A 2014 study [3] conducted by the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine found that a mere 2% reduction in hydration levels can lead to impaired physical stamina. Finally, statistics presented by the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) [4] in 2015 showed that elderly individuals with dementia were six times more likely to also suffer from chronic dehydration.
This just makes sense since the body is made up of about 75% water!
The Connection Between Dehydration and Cancer
Dehydration can have long-term consequences that go beyond those mentioned above, including mineral depletion, dental issues, heart issues and kidney disease [5]. In addition, those who are chronically dehydrated have a higher risk of major disease [6], including cancer.
In the 1930’s, Nobel Prize-nominated doctor and researcher Dr. Otto Warburg [7] promoted an idea that is now common knowledge amongst forward-thinking medical professionals. It is that cancer cells can only grow in an “anaerobic” environment, i.e. an environment with little or no oxygen.
It is true that the majority of the oxygen we take in is through the air we breathe. However, we need water (and hydrating whole foods) in order for that oxygen to go to all the tissues and cells of our body. In addition, a “backup” of toxins in the body can create an environment ripe for cancer cells to grow. Getting enough fresh, filtered water every day [8] helps keep those toxins “moving along”– and out of your body!
Studies also show [9] that dehydration itself can up your risk of Breast Cancer. A study conducted at the University of Sheffield in England found that women who drank enough water reduced their risk of Breast Cancer. Another study, sponsored by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle discovered that women who consumed at five glasses of water a say saw their risk of colon cancer reduced by 45 percent.
5 Tips for Staying Hydrated this Spring and Summer:
#1 Make Sure Your Water is Filtered! In order for your water to do you good, it has to be free of toxins and, ideally, structured [10] so that it can penetrate every cell. Hydrogen infused water is also extremely beneficial since it provides powerful anti-inflammatory properties. .
#2 Drink at Specific Times. First thing in the morning, 30 minutes before eating (to aid digestion)
and about 2 hours after eating is the best times to drink water, according to nutritional experts.
#3 Zest it up! If you are bored with plain water, why not add some healthy flavor? Cucumbers, lemons [11], rosemary or a touch of peppermint essential oil are all great additions. Be sure to stay away from sugary sweeteners though!
#4 Follow This Ratio. To get enough fluid every day, use this formula. Take your weight in pounds. Then divide that number in half. That is the minimum amount of water you should be drinking in ounces every day.
#5 Stay Hydrated If You are Undergoing Traditional Cancer Treatments. Finally, conventional treatments for cancer, especially chemotherapy, can dehydrate the body. [12] Other side effects, such as vomiting and diarrhea, can also cause dehydration. Make sure that you are getting enough water while you are engaged in any traditional cancer therapies.
The Bottom Line: Get to the Bottom of Your Glass!
The sad fact is that an estimated 80% of individuals [13] may be living in a state of constant dehydration. You don’t have to be one of them. Make sure to drink your water before your body gives you signs of dehydration. By doing so, you can be a partner for your body and your Healthy Breast lifestyle!
Dr. Veronique Desaulniers (“Dr V”) is the founder of Breast Cancer Conqueror.com and The 7 Essentials System ™. This step-by-step guide empowers you with knowledge so you Never Have to Fear Breast Cancer Again! To watch a FREE webinar about the 7 steps for beating breast cancer naturally, Click Here [14].