Summertime is glorious for outdoor activities but with that comes long days, heat, and maybe a little too much drinking – for many people, water is the first thing to go. However, if you want to keep your cool and your brainpower high, keeping hydrated is crucial. Even in hot weather, it’s important to stay hydrated, because when you don’t have enough water, your body starts to sweat to cool down. But when you’re hot and sweaty, staying hydrated is even more important, because dehydration can make you feel dizzy and lightheaded, which increases your chances of sunburn and other nasty sun-related injuries.
Hydration is the process by which the body maintains homeostasis and functions. It allows one to remain at a proper level of hydration, which is the amount of liquid inside a person that is not used and is not lost. The human body’s ability to maintain homeostasis is proportional to the hydration of the body. The body needs liquid to function properly.
The only way to be safe, fit, and healthy during this summer is by keeping yourself hydrated. Today, let’s explore some of the 3 easy steps that can help you.
1. WATER INTAKE
When most of us think of hydration, we think of water. We drink water to stay hydrated, to keep our bodies functioning properly, and to keep ourselves feeling well-rested. But water is not the only way to keep ourselves hydrated. We can get all the hydration we need from foods, such as fruits and vegetables, that are high in water content.
2. KNOW THE SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, urine, and eyes; heavy sweating; and restlessness. If you’re dehydrated, it’s important to drink more water and other liquids, especially during exercise and in hot weather. See a doctor if you are not able to drink enough fluids, especially if you are active or have a fever.
3. AVOID CAFFEINE, SUGARY DRINKS, AND ALCOHOL
During the summer months, it’s tempting to lighten up on your alcohol, sugary drinks, and/or caffeine consumption to avoid the heat or to save money. But lightening up on these key wintertime staples can lead to unwanted weight gain, water retention, and other symptoms of “treat-yo’-self” syndrome. So, while you shouldn’t deny yourself these things entirely, make sure to balance them out with healthier versions so that you can avoid the negative effects of overdoing them.
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