With South Florida experiencing record heats this summer we want to ensure that you understand the importance of staying hydrated so here are a few tips to keep you safe this summer.
Water is a must during hot weather and try to keep your consumption of caffeine drinks such as tea and sodas to a minimum. These drinks may quench your thirst but they do not provide your body with the fluids that it needs to run properly. Sports drinks with a lot of extra sugar are not in your best interests either. Some of the flavored waters that contain no extra sugar are a much better choice. Along with drinking the right kind of fluids, it is important to drink them regularly. Don't wait until you feel thirsty. The more active you are in hot and humid weather, the more you will need to consume. A good rule of thumb is four to eight ounces every twenty minutes or so if you are engaged in some type of rigorous physical activity such as jogging, playing tennis, or even swimming.
Be alert to the signs that you may be getting dehydrated. Usually, thirst is the last of the signs to appear. You are more likely to notice that your heart rate is increasing and that you feel slightly less sharp and able to focus on what is going on around you. Your urine may also indicate that your body is nearing dehydration if the color is darker than usual. When any of these signs begin to appear, get out of the sun and begin to drink water until you begin to feel better and your urine returns to a normal color. |