Ade’s days were always busy. As a Lagos-based accountant, his mornings started before sunrise, navigating traffic, rushing to meetings, and handling numbers all day. By the time he got home, he barely had the energy to eat, let alone think about water. It wasn’t until he fainted at work one afternoon that he realised something was seriously wrong.
At the hospital, the doctor’s words were simple but alarming: “You are severely dehydrated.”
Ade was shocked. He thought dehydration was something that happened to people stranded in the desert, not a young professional in a thriving city. But like many Nigerians, he had fallen into the habit of neglecting water.
Why Are Many Nigerians Not Drinking Enough Water?
1. “I Don’t Feel Thirsty, So I Must Be Fine”
• Many believe that if they are not thirsty, their body has enough water. In reality, thirst is a late signal of dehydration.
• By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already lacking enough fluids.
2. Busy Lifestyles
• People like Ade get so caught up in daily activities that they forget to drink water.
• Skipping meals, long hours in traffic, and excessive caffeine (from coffee or energy drinks) further dehydrate the body.
3. Preference for Sugary or Carbonated Drinks
• Some people replace water with soft drinks, juices, or energy drinks. These drinks may quench thirst temporarily but do not hydrate the body effectively.
4. Fear of Using Public Toilets
• Many Nigerians avoid drinking water to reduce restroom visits, especially in workplaces or while traveling. This habit leads to chronic dehydration, which can damage the kidneys over time.
5. Cultural Beliefs and Myths
• Some believe drinking too much water will cause bloating or make them gain weight.
• Others think drinking water only during meals is enough to stay hydrated.
The Health Consequences of Chronic Dehydration
1. Fatigue and Dizziness
• Dehydration reduces blood volume, making it harder for oxygen to reach the brain and muscles.
• This explains why Ade fainted at work—his body lacked the fluids to keep his blood circulating properly.
2. Kidney Problems
• The kidneys need water to filter toxins and produce urine.
• Chronic dehydration can lead to kidney stones or even kidney failure over time.
• Studies show that many Nigerians suffer from kidney diseases, partly due to inadequate water intake.
3. Skin and Digestive Issues
• Dry skin, acne, and premature wrinkles can be linked to dehydration.
• Insufficient water slows digestion, leading to constipation and bloating.
• Many people rely on laxatives instead of simply increasing their water intake.
4. Headaches and Poor Concentration
• The brain is made up of about 75% water. When dehydrated, concentration drops, and headaches become frequent.
• Many people mistake dehydration headaches for stress or tension headaches.
5. Weakened Immune System
• The body relies on water to flush out toxins.
• Dehydration weakens the immune system, making you more prone to infections like malaria and typhoid.
How Ade Changed His Habits and How You Can Too
After his hospital visit, Ade took dehydration seriously. Here’s what he did:
1. Started His Day with Water: Before checking his phone in the morning, he drank a full glass of water.
2. Set Water Reminders: He set alarms on his phone to remind him to drink water every two hours.
3. Switched to Water Instead of Soda: Instead of grabbing a soft drink during lunch, he chose water.
4. Carried a Reusable Bottle: Keeping a bottle at his desk made it easier to sip water throughout the day.
5. Ate Water-Rich Foods: He added more fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges to his diet.
6. Educated His Family and Friends: He encouraged his loved ones to drink more water by sharing his experience.
Simple Tips to Stay Hydrated
• Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily (more in hot weather or after exercise).
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate the body.
• Flavour your water with lemon or mint if you find plain water boring.
• Check your urine colour—dark yellow urine is a sign of dehydration, clear or light yellow is ideal.
• Always carry water when traveling or commuting.
• Eat foods high in water content, such as pineapples, tomatoes, and lettuce.
• Drink water before meals—this helps with digestion and prevents overeating.
The Wake-Up Call
One year later, Ade feels healthier, more energetic, and has fewer headaches. He no longer waits to feel thirsty before drinking water. His kidney function has improved, his skin looks better, and he no longer struggles with dizziness.
Dehydration is a silent threat that many Nigerians ignore until it becomes a medical emergency. Don’t wait for a warning sign like Ade did and start drinking more water today. Your body will thank you.
Many people in Nigeria are unknowingly living in a constant state of dehydration. From the scorching sun to busy work schedules, it’s easy to forget the most basic necessity which is water. However, staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to improve overall health. Take small steps today, and make water a priority in your life!
