Dehydration: What Happens When We Don’t Drink Enough Water
In Dehydration: What Happens When We Don’t Drink Enough Water, host Harith Iskander explains how up to 60% of the human body is made up of water, and how even small amounts of water loss — just 1-2% — can lead to dehydration. Learn how to recognize the signs of dehydration, including mood changes, trouble concentrating, bad breath, headaches, and fatigue. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Got Science?, a science magazine series that explores and explains science in everyday life.
Lesson Express
Q: What are some signs you might be dehydrated?
A: You might feel tired, have trouble concentrating, get headaches, or feel moody.
Q: Why does dehydration cause back pain?
A: When you're dehydrated, your spine can compress because the discs that cushion your back are made of water.
Q: How can dehydration make you crave sweets?
A: Your body can start craving sweet foods when it needs water but can't find enough of it.