Your body is approximately 70% water; taking water during summer is important to ensure optimal health. Drinking plenty of water doesn’t just maintain blood pressure and electrolyte balance. It also regulates body temperature, promotes cell health, and lubricates joints.
How Much Water to Drink per Day
Around 20% of your everyday fluid intake comes from what you eat, and the rest comes from the fluids you drink. The total amount of water you require depends on the gender.
According to the US National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, every man needs to drink around 16 cups (3.7 liters) and women 11 cups, which is a total of 2.7 liters per day. But you will need to drink more if you are undergoing IV therapy, a treatment for flu, dehydration, and hangovers.
While it is rare, drinking a lot of water is also possible. And drinking water in excess can be dangerous, especially to people with electrolyte abnormalities or heart disease. So it is best to be clear with a primary physician about what level of water is appropriate for your activity level and body.
Tips to Stay Hydrated
Every doctor can agree that your best defense mechanism against dehydration is prevention. Although everyone knows hydration is important for their health, it is easier said than done. This is why healthcare experts have suggested the following ways to ensure you stay hydrated during summer.
1. Hydrate in the Morning
Starting your day by replenishing the fluids is important for proper hydration as we tend to dehydrate overnight. Hydrating in the morning will help you get more energy and set for the day.
If you want to take this hydration to another level, take a cup of water with a squeezed liver-supporting lemon. This will supply your body with vitamin C.
2. Invest in a Fancy or Fun Water Bottle
The best water bottle will serve as a reminder to take more. Some water bottles even have marked measurements to track your water intake, while others have encouraging words printed on the side as the level of water goes down.
3. Start the Day with Oatmeal
This is a classic way of starting your day. Not only is oatmeal filling and hearty. It is also the best way to hydrate properly. As your oats cook, they absorb and expand the milk or water.
Don’t take oats for breakfast alone. Try them overnight too. Overnight oats, especially when served cold, pack the benefits of hot oatmeal without heat.
4. Wear Loose or Light Clothing
Don’t wear tight, dark, or thick clothing that enables your skin to breathe well and doesn’t make you sweat more. Instead, consider looser and lighter clothing, preventing dehydration from sweating/overheating and allowing your body to cool.
The Bottom Line!
Dehydration often happens when your body loses more fluids than you take. For many people, taking water during summer is the most effective way to rehydrate and stay hydrated. Other options to stay hydrated throughout the day includes oral rehydration solutions, milk, tea/coffee, sports drinks, and fruits & vegetables.
