Are you drinking enough clean water? How to keep the body hydrated can be a challenge for most of us because we have so many choices when it comes to bottled water, vitamin water, etc. Also, how much water do we need? In many health circles, it’s been suggested that a good rule of thumb is to drink one half of your body weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 100 pounds drink 50 ounces of water a day, so half of your weight in ounces. If you consume at least 6 ounces of coffee or other dehydrating beverages you would have to drink 12 more ounces plus the 50 ounces of water to replenish your water and stay hydrated. Something to keep in mind as we all lead busy lives and may not always measure our water content.
Symptoms of dehydration can include:
If you are thirsty, maybe you’re dehydrated so look for some tell-tale symptoms of dehydration:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dry Mouth
- Irritability
- Constipation
- Dark-colored urine
- Dry skin
Dehydration can also be illness-related, sometimes due to vomiting and diarrhea caused by stomach flu and food poisoning. Another cause of dehydration can be due to exercise, heat, or even travel.
What drinks to avoid when dehydrated
If you are dehydrated stay away from drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Avoid reaching for coffee, tea, and soda, no matter how refreshing they look. As for alcoholic beverages, keep this in mind: the higher the alcohol content, the more dehydrating the drink. A good rule of thumb is to always drink water alongside your cocktail!
Healthy drinks to help with hydration:
- Water
- Electrolyte Water
- Watermelon Water
- Coconut Water
- Lemon Ginger Water
Water basics to help keep kids hydrated
Water helps the body function when it comes to circulation, digestion, and pretty much every other physiological activity. It helps regulate the body’s temperature and aid in maintaining your kid’s pearly white teeth, unlike soda and other sugary drinks. Water plays a role in preventing weight gain and maintaining fluid balance in the body. Some research has shown drinking water might even help a kid do better in school. No question water is vital to life, however, unless we educate our kids to drink water at an early age they may choose to migrate towards the sugary drinks being offered instead of choosing water.