Why do get thirsty

Also, occasionally, Vernors -- Detroit's high-octane contribution to the world of ginger ale. The sensation of thirst is critical to the survival of pretty much every animal species, and yet the specific mechanics of the phenomenon have eluded science for years. Happily, new research published in the journal Nature has changed all that. Jules Suzdaltsev reports in today's DNews dispatch. Some background: Water is the single most important nutrient for animals -- and yes, it's a nutrient, technically speaking.

We humans are made up of about 60 percent water, and maintaining proper hydration is one of the major functions of the brain. As sweat evaporates, it cools the tissues beneath. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, to avoid dehydration, active people should drink at least 16 to 20 ounces of fluid one to two hours before an outdoor activity.

After that, you should consume 6 to 12 ounces of fluid every 10 to 15 minutes that you are outside. When you are finished with the activity, you should drink more. How much more? To replace what you have lost: at least another 16 to 24 ounces 2 to 3 cups. One way to make sure you are properly hydrated is to check your urine. Certain foods are also great at helping you stay hydrated thanks to being heavy on water content.

And many have added benefits of including other essential nutrients your body needs. Drinking water is one of the best ways to stay hydrated but some sports drinks can also assist in replacing not just fluids but electrolytes such as sodium and potassium.

But try to avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and sodas, as these fluids tend to pull water from the body and promote dehydration. Increased urination and excessive thirst are two telltale signs of the onset of type 2 diabetes. It can also be an indicator of hyperglycemia, a condition where there is too much sugar in the blood, most often experienced by those with diabetes.

As the excessive glucose molecules enter the urine, the glucose draws water with it like a sponge. In fact, an estimated 20 million Americans suffer from some form of thyroid disease. When the gland produces too much or too little hormone it can spur a variety of nonspecific symptoms, including abnormally heavy periods, anxiety, feeling hot, and dry mouth—all of which can lead to increased thirst.

Really, the only long-term solution for this is to decrease and better manage your stress levels. This includes foods like celery, asparagus, beets, lemons, melons, ginger, and parsley. You can also balance the scales by eating more fluid-rich foods, like oatmeal and brown rice, which soak up water during the cooking process. Feeling thirsty is a common side effect of the keto diet , since the eating plan requires you to significantly slash your carbohydrate intake.

There are several signs of pregnancy to watch for, including excessive thirst. Your blood volume increases during your first trimester, which forces your kidneys to create excess fluid that winds up in your bladder, according to the Mayo Clinic , meaning your trips to the bathroom may become more frequent. Ongoing or sudden blood loss—thanks to issues like heavy periods and bleeding ulcers—can spike your thirst levels as your body aims to make up for the fluid loss.

Excessive bleeding is also a common cause of anemia , a condition in which your body loses red blood cells faster than they can be replaced, says Dr.