Photo Credit: Ryan Hyde
Prevent dehydration this summer from ruining your summer plans and making you feel sick.
You don’t need expensive and sugar-loaded electrolyte beverages to stay hydrated during warm weather. Follow these tips to fight dehydration naturally this summer in cool, healthy, and refreshing ways.
Tip #1: Drink More Water
While sometimes this is easier said than done, it’s paramount to drink enough water each and every day to prevent dehydration. It’s the best way to ensure you get enough water in the first place to protect your body against dehydration.
Ideally, you should take your weight and divide it by two. That’s the number of ounces you should aim to drink daily. For example, a 150-pound woman should drink 75 ounces of water daily.
Water does more than prevent dehydration. Drinking enough water makes for clearer skin and more energy. Carry water with you everywhere you go so you know you’re getting the right amount of water that you need.
Tip #2: Eat Summer Fruits and Vegetables
Summer is a great time to eat delicious in-season fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, many summer fruits and vegetables have high water content.
Aim to eat cucumbers, berries, watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, and passion fruit to infuse additional water into your diet. While these foods should not replace your water intake, they can help.
Tip #3: Make Delicious Popsicles
Popsicles are great for hot summer days, and they happen to have a high water content. Instead of buying sugary popsicles, make your own.
You can even make “grown-up” popsicles with fresh herbs in savory flavors. Try blending a watermelon and adding some fresh mint leaves into the mixture before you freeze. You can even mix pureed plum with some Sangria, although this won’t necessarily help with dehydration.
Tip #4: Watch Your Alcohol Intake
Alcohol pulls from stored water and can dehydrate you. That’s why college students refer to having Gatorade bottles ready to go after a night of partying and drinking.
Watch your alcohol intake this summer to prevent dehydration. You can still have a good time and drink occasionally, but this way, you’re more likely to stay hydrated.
For other healthy tips and strategies to help you through summer, check out our blog.
