The Importance of Staying Hydrated

As temperatures rise this summer, we need to pay close attention to an important part of our health – our Hydration. Our bodies are 60% water and maintaining the right balance of water and electrolytes (such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium) is essential to keeping you healthy.

Every part of our body depends on water to function. It plays a key role in keeping our body temperatures cool, keeping our skin moist and healthy, flushing out toxins, and preventing constipation. With the rising temperatures and our love for the outdoors comes an increased loss of hydration through sweating and evaporation.

Some signs of dehydration are you may start to feel fatigued, increase thirst, loss of appetite, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and lightheadedness.

A good indicator of whether you are staying hydrated enough throughout the day is the color of your urine. If your urine is pale yellow it indicates you are staying hydrated and if your urine is a darker yellow you need to start increasing your fluids right away.

Here are a few ways to keep yourself well hydrated this summer and every day.

1. Drink water each day to stay well hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle with you so you can sip water throughout the day.
2. Eat healthy snacks that have water in them like cucumbers, celery, watermelon strawberries, and broccoli.
3. Take frequent water breaks throughout the day and before actives.
4. Keep track of your water intake throughout the day so you can see if you have not been drinking enough fluids.

With more hot days ahead of us keep in mind that heat exhaustion can happen quickly. Remember that dangerous conditions come along with poor hydration. If you feel dehydrated or are overheated, rest in a cool place out of the sun and heat, start sipping slowly on some water, and apply cool compresses to your head, neck, and chest. If your symptoms do not improve over a short period of time, you need to see your doctor or call 911 right away.