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How to Combat Dehydration in the Summer

Summer is a time to get outdoors and experience warm weather with friends, family, and loved ones. However, there are dangers when getting outside in the scorching heat, especially in West Texas. One of the most common issues people face in the summer is dehydration. When dehydrated, adults typically feel extremely thirsty, are fatigued, experience dizziness, or become confused. For more symptoms of dehydration, you can visit our blog post about hiking and heat stroke.

Since summer is a time of hiking and doing more activities outdoors, and typically, the temperatures are way higher, it’s important to be aware of what you can do to prevent dehydration.

Consistently Drink Water

Do not wait until you’re thirsty, or until after you’ve finished playing a volleyball game on the beach. To truly combat dehydration, you need to be drinking liquids about every 20 minutes. When it’s hot outside, we sweat, which speeds up the rate you lose water from your system. Regularly drinking water will help you replenish all the moisture you lost while sweating and being active.

Wear Light Colors

Dark materials absorb heat, so try and wear lighter colors when you work or exercise outside. If you’re going for a hike, try to wear breathable fabrics that don’t cling to your body. White t-shirts are in, and it’s not only because they’re super cute and trendy, but also because they’re the most logical fashion choice to beat the summer heat.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Unfortunately, your morning cup of Joe and your afternoon Mai Tai are not doing you any favors in the hydration department. Both alcohol and caffeine dehydrate you, so be aware of your drinking habits, especially in the summertime. If you must drink alcohol on a hot, summer day, be sure to alternate each beer with a bottle of water. This process will help your water supply remain more consistent and save you from having a dizzy spell on the back porch.

Drink Coconut Water & Eat Hydrating Foods

Coconut water is a natural way to replenish your electrolytes and stay hydrated during the summer. Most people love the taste of the naturally sweet coconut, so it helps people drink more during the day. Also, coconut water is lower in sugar than most other sports drinks or juices.

Also, it’s important to try and incorporate hydrating foods into your diet. According to Health, some of the top hydrating foods include cucumbers, iceberg lettuce, celery, radishes, tomatoes, green peppers, watermelon, etc. So, start brainstorming delicious summer snacks that incorporate some of the best hydrating vegetables and fruits.

Avoid Peak Heat

If at all possible, avoid going outside between 10 am and 2 pm. During these times, the heat is at its worst, and you are way more likely to experience dehydration. If you still want to get out and experience nature during the summer, we recommend taking evening walks or waking up early in the morning to go outside.

During the peak times, try to come inside and cool down. Drink some water, eat some hydrating foods, change into your favorite white shirt, and put down that beer- summertime fun and excitement awaits at 2:01 pm.

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