Beat the Summer Heat

Dehydration can sneak up on you no matter what age you are, but the very young and old are the most suseptable to it. Finding time to drink and getting enough to drink and getting the right drink are key to staying healthy this summer.

Water is vital, of course. Getting half ones body weight in ounces per day is the typical protocol to follow. Over drinking water can be dangerous so don't go the mind-set, "more is better". So, doing the math on that looks like this as an example: a 150 pound person, should drink 75 ounces of water on any given day. On a hot day, 12 ounces more is safe!

Adding to hydration would be the need for electrolytes. Now, I understand the majority goes to "Gatorade", BUT, it is full of sugars, salt and dyes and totally not the best option, even if it is "cheap"! Try getting coconut water. This is how I suggest to my clients how to drink coconut water along with water - in the above equation, make part of water intake your electrolyte replacement, meaning, get AT LEAST 24-32 ounces of coconut water. So, the math on this looks like this as an example: a 150 pound person will drink, say, 50 ounces of water and 25-32 ounces of coconut water. Easy right? Even toddlers need coconut water!

If we drink the hydrating drinks first, then we keep our heart healthy, our mind clear and weight loss can occur. Athletes may require more than the above, depending on the heat, the activity and other factors.

Mild to Moderate Dehyration: Sever Dehydration:

Dry sticky mouth Extreme thirst

Sleepiness or tiredness Irritability or confusion

Dry skin Sunken eyes

Headache Dry skin that doesn't bounce back

when pinched lightly

Watermelon is an excellent source of electrolytes and hydration! I've had some of the best watermelon this month! Remember, fruits and veggies are hydrating also, so eat that in-season produce and enjoy! Be safe and have a lovely summer!