Tag: dehydration

Hydration, Energy and Everyday Wellness

Published on by Nikken

Water is essential for life. From the time that primeval species ventured from the oceans to live on land, a major key to survival has been prevention of dehydration. The critical adaptations cross an array of species, including man. Without water, humans can survive only for a few days. Water comprises from 75% body weight in infants to 55% in elderly and is essential for cellular homeostasis and life.1

Water can be soft or hard, spring or well, carbonated or distilled. PiMag® water, for instance, is inspired by water that comes from nature, such as spring water. In addition to the different forms of water to drink directly as a beverage, water is also received from food, found predominantly in fruits and vegetables. The proportion of water that comes from beverages and food varies with the proportion of fruits and vegetables in the diet. In the United States, an estimated 22% of water comes from food intake.2 This percentage is much higher in European countries, particularly in a country like Greece with its higher intake of fruits and vegetables. The same holds true for Asian countries such as China and South Korea—with diets centered on vegetarian and plant-based proteins such as tofu.

Foods that contain high water content (90-99%) include fat-free milk, cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon, lettuce, celery, spinach, cabbage, cooked squash and even pickles. Other items such as fruit juice, yogurt, apples, grapes, oranges, cooked broccoli, pears and pineapple may contain 80-89% water.

The role of water and hydration in physical activity, particularly in athletes and in the military, has been the target of scientific research. Athletes have been found to lose as much as 6–10% of body weight in sweat loss during competitive events.3 If this loss is not replaced with fluids, dehydration may occur. Rehydration, on the other hand, can help restore fluid balance and may support normal physical performance during endurance activities. Staying adequately hydrated is an important part of maintaining energy and functioning well during physical activities.

Water can influence how well you function on an everyday level. Even mild levels of dehydration may affect how you feel and function, including mood and mental clarity. This can be evident in the very young, very old, those living in extremely hot climates, and those who exercise intensely on a regular basis. Again, rehydration is key to help support normal body function.

To maintain hydration levels throughout the day, you can use the color of your urine as a simple guide. Pale yellow suggests adequate hydration while darker yellow may indicate that you need to replenish quickly. As mentioned above, many foods are water-rich, so try to incorporate them into your daily diet.

1, 2, 3 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2908954/

Why Does Hydration Matter?

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Staying hydrated isn’t just about avoiding thirst or dry mouth. Hydration supports the body’s major systems. In fact, 60 percent of the human body is composed of water. Different parts of the body, such as the brain, lungs, kidneys, heart, liver and so on, hold varying amounts of water.

Water also plays an important part in aging. For instance, how much water the human body holds decreases with age—babies are born with 75 percent of their bodies composed of water.1 The decrease in water composition over the years means older people need to drink water or other fluids consistently throughout the day to help maintain normal hydration and support overall body function.

In fact, water is the foundation of cellular function. It helps to regulate body temperatures, support normal energy metabolism and transport nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. Hydration also supports normal cognitive function, including focus, concentration, and memory. Even mild dehydration may contribute to headaches, dizziness or difficulty concentrating. Since cartilage is composed of about 80 percent water, joints and muscles also rely on hydration to function well. Cartilage acts as a buffer for the spine and the joints, and water helps keep tissues hydrated. Water acts like oil does on squeaky hinges—it helps lubricate joints, while acting as a cushion for muscles and other sensitive tissues.

When the body maintains proper fluid levels, it efficiently transports essential electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, through the bloodstream to support normal muscle function and hydration. Electrolytes and water also need to be replenished to help the body regulate temperature. Since perspiration serves as the body’s natural cooling system, this loss of fluid needs to be replaced during and after physical activities.

Skin is the body’s largest organ and is composed of 30 percent water, which contributes to plumpness, elasticity and resiliency.2 Dry skin generally results from exposure to the elements, contact with hot water and scrubbing with soap. Sufficient water intake helps support overall hydration which is one of the many factors that contributes to healthy-looking skin. No matter the type of skin care regimen, staying well hydrated is an important part of basic skin health.

On average, healthy men require about 15.5 cups of total water daily, while women need around 11.5 cups, according to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. This includes water from all sources such as beverages and water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. However, water needs vary depending on factors such as physical activity, climate, health conditions and age.3 Simply put, the more you exercise and the hotter the climate you live in, the more water you may need.

Get to know your body and pay attention to hydration. You may notice an empowering difference!

1 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-percentage-of-the-human-body-is-water

2, 3 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2908954/

Stop Waking Up Tired: Close the Recovery Gap!

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Every creature requires sleep. From mammals to insects, not a single living creature can survive without sufficient sleep. Animals can sleep up to 22 hours to as little as 30 minutes a day! This drastic difference depends on many factors, including species-specific diets, sizes, hunter or prey status. Carnivorous hunters sleep longer due to higher calorie diets, while herbivores and prey animals sleep less as they need to be vigilant to avoid being attacked.1

Scientists note that most animals need at least some rest during either night or day, and sleep is crucial for humans. While it’s generally healthy for people to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep nightly, the key is to actually experience restfulness during those hours. Too often, people wake up feeling tired or experience a mid-afternoon slump. So, what’s a body to do?

Here are a few tips to help you create a more restful sleep routine so you wake up ready to take on the day:

•          Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.2 Water can help your body get ready to start the day. After all, during the day, you hydrate periodically, whereas during sleep, you may be losing moisture through perspiration without replenishing. Staying hydrated can help support overall well-being and alertness.

•          Stretch your body upon waking. Overnight, during REM sleep, your muscles are literally paralyzed. This is known as atonia.3 Stretching first thing in the morning can help stimulate circulation throughout your body to help you transition from sleep to wakefulness, making you feel more alert. If you like yoga, morning may be the best time to do it, as it can help trigger the release of endorphins that provide increased energy and even help improve brain function.4

•          Eat breakfast. In a cross-sectional study conducted with 323 undergraduate health professional students, breakfast skippers exhibited poorer attention, while students consuming a nutritious breakfast demonstrated improved attention.5 What you eat for breakfast can make a difference in energy levels, so choose a combination of lean proteins, whole grains, nuts, and fruit with low sugar content—these types of food may help support steady energy throughout the day. Avoid sugary foods as they can spike-and-crash energy levels.

•          Drink less coffee. This does not mean to abstain, but to drink in moderation. Coffee has been found to many health benefits; however, drinking a large amount first thing in the morning has been found to possibly contribute to fatigue later in the day.6 The caffeine gives you a temporary lift, and can also cause dehydration and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

•          Go outside for a few minutes. Sunlight triggers serotonin, which can elevate your mood and help you feel more energized. If you can’t go outside, open the curtains so you’re exposed to light the minute you wake up. This can help you quickly wake up and get rid of any sleepiness. If you can carve out some time to go for a walk, jog or run before tackling the rest of the day, even better!

•          Watch what you eat and drink in the evening, because it well may impact your next morning. Finish large meals 2-3 hours before your bedtime, and eliminate caffeine in the late afternoons. If having alcoholic beverages, drink sparingly in the evening hours, as it can disrupt deep sleep cycles.

•          Develop a comfortable rest-to-rise routine and stick to it. Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily, even on weekends. A consistent schedule helps maintain your circadian rhythm, which is linked to your internal biological clock that’s responsible for feelings of sleepiness.

Be sure to check out our July 2026 rest-and-rise specials on nikken.com!

1 https://naplab.com/guides/sleeping-habits-of-different-animal-species/

2, 3, 4, 6 https://www.healthline.com/health/morning-fatigue-remedies

5 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11484532/

Smart Hydration: Why Does Your Brain Need Water?

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Your brain is like the conductor of an orchestra. The conductor instructs which instruments to play just as the brain directs you in all your daily functions. That’s why keeping the brain healthy is an important part of overall well-being. When you think about hydration, you probably don’t single out the brain to focus on, but as one of the most active organs in your body, keeping it hydrated is essential to function optimally—even mild dehydration may be associated with changes in mental performance, focus, and how you feel throughout the day.

The human brain is composed of about 75% water, and it relies on consistent hydration to support normal physiological processes. Dehydration can impair your brain’s ability to function optimally, leading to possible issues such as decreased concentration and focus, slower cognitive performance, increased feelings of irritability, fatigue, headaches, mood swings, and even short-term memory deficiencies. How often have you felt any of these annoyances and attributed it to thirst? Being aware helps you win half the battle!

Prolonged dehydration can sometimes have even more severe consequences, including decreased blood flow to the brain and an increased risk of stroke.The general recommendation is to drink about eight glasses of water a day, but individual needs vary depending on factors such as age, activity level, and environment. A good rule of thumb is to drink enough water so that your urine is pale yellow.1

Here are some tips for smart hydration2:

  1. Start Your Day with Water: Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up to replenish fluids lost overnight.
  2. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Keeping water within reach encourages you to sip throughout the day.
  3. Infuse Your Water: Add a splash of flavor with slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to make water more enjoyable. Adding Kenzen Jade GreenZymes® or Super Ciaga™ can also motivate you to drink more water.
  4. Eat Hydrating Foods: Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are packed with water.
  5. Avoid Sugar: Sugary sports drinks or high-sugar sodas can lead to blood sugar spikes that can impair cognitive function.
  6. Set Reminders: Use an app or set alarms to remind yourself to hydrate regularly.

Staying hydrated helps keep your mind sharp and is an effective way to support your brain health and overall well-being.

1, 2 https://communityneuroservices.com/hydration-and-brain-health-why-drinking-water-matters-for-your-mind/

Increase Your Vitality and Transform Your Day with Smart Hydration

Published on by Nikken

Smart hydration begins with self-awareness. Instead of waiting until thirst sets in, make hydration a consistent habit throughout the day. Starting your morning with water gently awakens your system after hours of rest, while sipping regularly throughout the day helps sustain energy and balance.

Every cell in the body depends on water to function optimally. Hydration supports circulation, digestion, temperature regulation, detoxification, and mental clarity. When you’re under-hydrated, you may feel tired, unfocused, or sluggish—signals that your body is asking for better support.

When thinking about enhancing energy, focus, and overall vitality, many individuals may look to nutrition, movement and rest. One of the most powerful—and often overlooked—foundations of feeling good every day is hydration. Smart hydration is not just about drinking copious amounts of water. Smart hydration truly supports the body from within.

Quality matters. You may drink a lot of water, but PiMag® water replicates natural sources of water and may provide transformative hydration. Inspired by the natural qualities of water found in nature, PiMag® water is alkaline and filtered through mineral stones in the PiMag® Waterfall. These stones are imbued with copper ions, mirroring the way water absorbs minerals as it flows through natural environments.

Many people find PiMag® water lighter, smoother, and more refreshing, making it easier—and more likely to drink more often to stay hydrated. This consistent water intake supports digestion, circulation, and overall energy levels throughout the day.

Hydration plays a vital role in supporting an active lifestyle. Muscles, joints, and connective tissues rely on water to remain flexible and resilient. When your body is well-hydrated, movement feels easier, recovery feels smoother, and everyday activities require less effort.

Beyond the physical benefits, hydration supports mental and emotional well-being. Even mild dehydration can affect mood and focus. Choosing high-quality water like PiMag® can help you feel more lucid and better equipped to meet the demands of the hectic contemporary lifestyle.

Smart hydration—powered by PiMag® water—is a simple yet transformative habit that fuels vitality from the inside out, supporting balanced living and helping you feel good every day. The entire month of January, take advantage of 20% off replacement filters, including filters for the PiMag Waterfall® and other filtration systems.

The Water-Gut Connection

Published on by Nikken

Water is critical for the smooth operations of various bodily functions. These functions include temperature regulation, the transport and distribution of nutrients and the elimination of waste and toxins. Water is also one of the primary ingredients for healthy digestion. In other words, hydration and efficient digestion make perfect partners.

Water is required for digestion, acting as a lubricant that facilitates the movement of food along the digestive tract. From the moment food enters the mouth, saliva, which is primarily water, begins to break down complex carbohydrates. As the food travels through the digestive system, it needs adequate water to maintain the right consistency for smooth movement. In the stomach, water combines with stomach acids to help break down proteins and aid in the digestive process. Water helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements.1 In a nutshell, the digestive processes that require water include the following2:

• Saliva production—Saliva is primarily water and contains enzymes that begin the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth.

• Gastric juices—Water is the main component of the gastric juices that in the stomach that help break down food.

• Enzyme function–Many digestive enzymes require a watery environment to efficiently break down food.

Proper hydration is essential for optimal nutrient absorption in the digestive system, since water moves the nutrients from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. When well hydrated, the body can efficiently absorb vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.3

Digestive disorders occur when the body is dehydrated. This is because when the body doesn’t have enough water, it takes whatever water is available for critical functions such as maintaining blood pressure and supporting vital organs.4 When this happens, the digestive system may not receive enough water, leading to constipation and other discomforts.

To keep your gut healthy, remember to drink water throughout the day. The more active you are, the more water you will need to stay adequately hydrated. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics, so be mindful of fluid loss and dehydration and increase the volume of water you drink to help compensate. Since many fruits and vegetables are full of water, incorporate them into your daily regimen and obtain not only the benefits of hydration but also essential vitamins and minerals. Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges and berries are examples of produce abundant in water and vitamins.

Some simple daily habits for healthy digestion are:

• Starting your day with a glass of water. This helps kickstart your metabolism and the digestive system first thing in the morning,
• Drink water consistently throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, because by then you are probably already somewhat dehydrated. Keep a water bottle with you as a reminder to drink!

• Drink water before, during and after exercise. Physical activity of any sort can lead to fluid loss, and staying hydrated helps support your muscles and digestive system.

Remember, for the entire month of this July, you receive 20% off select filter replacements. That includes filters for our PiMag Waterfall® that helps you hydrate with alkaline water inspired by nature.

1 https://bgapc.com/hydration-and-digestion-gut-health/

2, 3, 4 https://patialaheart.com/blog/the-link-between-dehydration-and-digestion-how-water-affects-your-gut-health/

How Does Water Affect Gut Health?

Published on by Nikken

The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in overall health—not just in digestion but also in immune function and mental well-being. Research suggests that integrating sufficient water intake as part of a balanced diet may contribute to shaping a healthy gut microbiome.1

The gut is responsible for intestinal secretions and movements as well as waste removal. One of the basic functions of water in the gut is to lubricate the digestive tract. If you drew a map of the digestive process, the path would start from the mouth, where saliva starts the breakdown of food. Once swallowed, the food particles move from the esophagus to the stomach and down to the intestines.

A properly hydrated system would ensure the food particles have a smooth journey. Without enough hydration, the food particles would not be digested efficiently and the nutrients would not get absorbed into the bloodstream. Poor digestion can result in dietary deficiencies and any variety of stomach issues.

Drinking water with meals can help with overall digestion, but staying hydrated throughout the day is also important. How much hydration is necessary depends on each person’s particular physiology as well as living environment. People living in hot climates where a lot of sweating occurs may need more hydration than those living in cooler zones. By the same token, people who exercise strenuously and perspire more, will need more hydration than those less active.

What happens when the body doesn’t have a sufficient amount of water? The body will automatically use whatever water it has for critical functions, such as supporting the vital organs that maintain blood pressure and respiration. The digestive system is then left “dry” and discomforts such as constipation and stomach aches can occur.

Being dehydrated can cause an imbalance of electrolytes, which in turn can slow down the muscle contractions in the digestive tract that help push food particles through the system—causing bloating and other discomforts.

The general guideline for adequate hydration is about eight to 10 cups of water per day, which equates to approximately 64-80 ounces or 1.9-2.4 liters. This includes food rich in water content, not just plain water.2

Drink water—to your health!

1, 2 https://www.austingastro.com/2024/05/17/hydration-and-digestion-why-water-is-essential-for-a-healthy-gut/

When Are the Best Times to Hydrate?

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By the time you actually feel thirsty, your body is already past the point where it would have been ideal to hydrate. Proper hydration can actually be scheduled, so that you maintain  balanced levels throughout the day. You probably already drink water at certain times because of your daily routine, but here are a few reminders!

When you wake up in the morning, your body has been through a long fast from both food and water. So, first thing in the morning is a great time to start hydrating. If you can start with a glass of PiMag® water, that would be ideal, because coffee is a diuretic more than a hydrator. Many swear by a squeeze of fresh lemon in the water to jumpstart the day; Nikken aficionados like to add their first serving of Jade Greenzymes® powder to water first thing in the morning or to swallow the capsules with a full glass.

If you are someone who perspires a lot, you need to drink more water to compensate for the loss. If you relax in a sauna or steam room, remember to drink water afterwards. Since exercise generally induces sweat, always drink water before and after you work out. In fact, you should take small breaks throughout your exercise routine to hydrate before continuing on.

Staying well hydrated may help people lose weight or maintain a healthy one. Many times, people will eat when they’re not actually hungry, because the brain recognizes hunger and thirst in similar ways. Try drinking a glass of water when you “think” you are hungry, and see if that satisfies the so-called hunger pangs.

Drinking water before each meal also may help with weight control. A small study tested people who drank 500 milliliters or a little over 16 ounces of water about 30 minutes before mealtimes over 12 weeks. They lost almost 3 pounds more than those who didn’t follow the protocol.1 Another study with 50 overweight girls who drank two cups of water half an hour before breakfast, lunch and dinner, found they lost weight and lowered their body mass index after eight weeks. Researchers explain that water speeds up the body’s process of burning fat for energy.2

When you need to get blood drawn for a test, or if you are someone who donates blood, be sure to drink water before your appointment. Hydration opens up your veins, increases blood flow and makes it easier on both you and the tech or nurse. If you can remember to drink 64 ounces at least 24 hours before your appointment, that should help the process.

When you’re under the weather, especially during cold and flu season, drink as much water as you can. Stay away from caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages, as those will dehydrate you. Staying hydrated will help you recover more quickly.

Dehydration can cause headaches and trigger migraines. If you are susceptible to headaches or dizziness, be sure to prevent them by sipping water throughout the day. Even a slight dip in fluid levels can bring on a nasty headache, so keep sipping consistently and develop the water-drinking habit!

Are you someone who experiences an afternoon slump? Do you feel like you need a nap? Instead of hitting the coffee pot, try drinking a tall cool glass of PiMag® water and see if you feel energized. According to the British Journal of Nutrition, your state of hydration directly affects your mood, memory and visual perception.3

This year, commit to drinking more water and help your entire family create the healthy habit of hydration!

You only have two days left to take advantage of the 20% discount on select PiMag® and KenkoAir filters, so be sure to order your spares right away!

1, 2, 3 https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-best-times-drink-water