Summer is officially here, it reached 100 degrees last week and this week ??, so make sure that you are drinking at least 96 oz of hydrating fluids daily. I know that we talk about fluids A LOT at the clinic. Typically, everyone you see will ask you “how much fluids are you drinking daily”, which can be tiresome I am sure. When we ask about your fluids however, it isn’t to annoy you, or to check mark a “fulfilled box”. We just want to make sure that you are staying hydrating and always feeling your best. Water plays a critical role in the body by helping with fat metabolism, basic body functions, and preventing constipation.
A hydrating fluid is less than 15 calories, decaf, and non-carbonated. Some different hydrating fluids that you can incorporate to help prevent yourself from becoming burnt out on a certain drink or flavor are listed below. The ones in bold print are electrolytes which are recommended during the summer time, if you develop muscle cramps, and/or if you experience starry vision.
- Water
- HINT water
- Diet Ocean Spray
- Diet V8 Splash
- Crystal Light
- MIO
- Sugar Free Jello/Popsicles
- Powerade/Gatorade Zero
- Lyteshow
- Propel
- Vitamin Water Zero
Contact your physician if you think you are dehydrated. You may need to come to the clinic for fluids.
Some common signs of dehydration are:
- Darker urine color and decreased urine output.
- Cramping in arms and legs
- Sleepy/irritable
- Headache
- Thirst or dry mouth.
- Hunger (a lot of times when we think we are hungry, we are thirsty).
- Constipation
- Cold hands/feet
- Rapid heartbeat and weak pulse.
- Dizziness, weakness, fatigue, or lethargy.
In the comments below, let me know what some of your favorite hydrating fluids are.