Ray Pigott A lot of us have been dealing with a heatwave lately and you might be realising that dehydration is no joke. Getting enough water is crucial, and in the summer we tend to lose a lot more of it due to sweat, which can lead to nasty symptoms like headaches, lethargy, and muscle soreness as we get more dehydrated. Here are a few tips to help you keep your water supplies stocked up and to stay safe.
Track your drinking
Drinking more water is the best advice that most people can get. How much you should be drinking can change depending on your gender, size, and how much you exercise but, for women, it lies within the 2.7 litres range. Making sure that you’re drinking enough can be made easier with the help of apps like Hydro Coach, as well. You can track how much you’re drinking and get reminders of when to hydrate.
Plan ahead
If you’re planning to leave the house for over an hour, then you should make sure that you have water on you. If you can pick up some bottled water on the way, that will do fine. However, there are also more sustainable options like Hippo Bottles, made to be portable, that you can fill and take with you. Whether you’re going to the gym, for a walk, or otherwise making a long trip or commute, bring enough water with you.
Get hydration any way you can
Drinking water is the most effective way to hydrate your body, but it’s not the only way. You can help your body top up in a variety of ways. Eating foods with high water content, such as watermelon and cucumber, can help. Similarly, moisturising skincare products, especially plant-based ones, can help you absorb hydration directly through the skin. It’s no replacement for drinking, but it can prevent localised dehydration, too.
Know where you lose water
It’s not just about getting enough water, it’s also about making sure you don’t lose enough. Drinking extra water when you work out should be a known essential step. Similarly, if you’re spending time out in the sun, make sure you’re using high SPF lotions like Sukin Ultrasun, and protect your skin as best as possible so the heat and UV contact doesn’t dry it out.
Recognise dehydration
Dehydration is a risk you should take seriously as even lighter forms of it can ruin your whole day. If you let it get severe, you can be in real danger. The first sign is likely to be thirst, which can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, so take a drink if you feel either. After that, you might start feeling a little dizzy, lightheaded, or even tired. If you do, get out of the sun and take a drink.
If you’re aiming to take better care of yourself, then more active hydration simply must play a role, there are no two ways about it. Keep the tips above in mind and ensure that you’re getting the water content that your body needs.
