Avoiding dehydration
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EmailOne of the best and cheapest ways to stay hydrated is to drink plenty of water.
Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluid than you take in. Fluid loss can come from sweating, sickness/illness or frequent urination. It is important to stay hydrated and one of the best and cheapest ways to do this is to drink plenty of water. To combat mild dehydration drink plenty of fluids and sucking on ice cubes can also help prevent dehydration. Carrying a reusable and fillable water bottle with you is an easy way to stay hydrated throughout the day. If drinking plain water is hard for you, try adding a mint leaf or a slice of lemon, lime or even cucumber to give your water a light flavor.
It is recommended that a person drink between 91 ounces to 125 ounces of water daily. Remember two-thirds of your body consists of water and water plays an important role in waste elimination from the body and helps with other things like keeping your body temperature regulated. Some foods contain water but not nearly enough to meet your body’s water requirement.
When temperatures are extremely hot outside and people are participating in outdoors activities, remember to increase your fluid consumption to replace what you are losing from perspiration. The more you sweat the less water is available for your body to function properly. Young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and athletes need to be careful to make sure they are drinking enough water. Dehydration if left untreated can lead to hospitalization and can become life threatening.
Some signs and symptoms of mild dehydration include:
- Dry mouth
- Thirst
- Headache
- Low urine output
- Dark colored urine
- Muscle cramping
