What Does It Mean?
Dehydration is a condition characterized by an insufficient amount of water in the body to maintain normal physiological functions. It can result from excessive fluid loss, inadequate intake, or a combination of both. Dehydration can affect electrolyte balance, blood pressure regulation, and cellular metabolism, leading to significant health consequences if left unaddressed.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes of Dehydration
- Inadequate Fluid Intake – Failure to consume sufficient fluids due to illness, lifestyle factors, or cognitive impairment.
- Excessive Fluid Loss – Commonly due to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or diuretic medications.
- Electrolyte Imbalance – Loss of sodium, potassium, and chloride disrupts hydration and cellular function.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders – Conditions like IBS, Crohn's disease, and food poisoning contribute to excessive fluid loss.
- Metabolic Imbalances – Unregulated diabetes and kidney dysfunction can lead to increased urination and dehydration.
- Adrenal Dysfunction – Chronic stress and adrenal fatigue can impair aldosterone production, leading to sodium imbalance and dehydration.
Signs & Symptoms
Patients with dehydration may present with:
- Dry mouth and extreme thirst
- Dizziness, fatigue, and weakness
- Decreased urine output (dark yellow urine)
- Muscle cramps and headaches
- Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure
- Cognitive impairment and confusion
- Dry skin with poor elasticity (tenting when pinched)
Lab Test Findings
Below are the expected lab changes associated with dehydration:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Albumin | Increased | 4.50-5.00 g/dL |
| Albumin : Globulin Ratio | Increased | 1.40-2.10 |
| Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | Increased | 10.00-16.00 |
| Calcium | Increased | 8.90-9.50 mg/dL |
| Chloride | Increased | 100.00-106.00 mg/dL |
| Color | Dark Yellow/amber | Yellow |
| Creatinine | Increased | 0.80-1.10 mg/dL |
| Calcium Carbonate Crystals
Hemoglobin Hyaline Cast |
Present
Increased Present |
NONE
13.50-14.50 g/dL NONE |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| Phosphorus (Phosphate) | Increased | 3.00-4.00 mg/dL |
| Potassium | Increased | 4.00-4.50 mEq/L |
| RBC | Increased | 4.20-4.90 Cells/µL |
| Sodium | Increased | 137.00-142,00 mEq/L |
| Specific Gravity | Increased | 1.005-1.030 |
| Total Protein | Increased | 6.90-7.40 g/dL |
| Transparency (Clarity) | Cloudy or turbid | Clear |
| Triple Phosphate Crystals | Increased | None |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine focuses on restoring hydration, optimizing electrolyte balance, and addressing the root cause of fluid depletion.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Magnesium | Supports hydration, muscle function, and stress response. | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Endura | Provides essential electrolytes for rehydration and cellular balance. | 1 packet with or without food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Water Intake: Encourage consistent hydration with filtered water and herbal teas.
- Monitor Electrolytes: Ensure adequate sodium, potassium, and magnesium intake for optimal cellular function.
- Address Root Causes: Manage conditions like diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, and GI disorders contributing to fluid loss.
- Hydrating Foods: Incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and bone broth.
- Avoid Diuretics: Limit excessive caffeine, alcohol, and medications that promote dehydration unless medically necessary.