Did you know that sweating can cause you to lose up to 40% of your body’s water, making it especially important to stay hydrated in the summer heat? Stay hydrated. Drink water.
Our bodies are composed of 50% to 70% water, and water is essential to our bodily functions. Summer months are a great time to spend our time outdoors and staying active, however, there are also certain dangers or risks associated with too much heat and too much sun exposure. Be sure to stay hydrated in the summer months, especially during heat advisory warnings. Listen to your body and know the signs of dehydration. The only way to treat dehydration is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes; if you are severely dehydrated, seek medical attention right away.
10 Signs of Dehydration:
- feeling thirsty
- a dry mouth, lips and tongue, sunken eyes
- flushed (red) skin, or pale and dry skin
- headache, fatigue, dizzy or lightheaded
- peeing less often than usual
- dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
- swollen feet, muscle cramps
- heat intolerance or chills
- constipation, abdominal cramps or pain
- vomiting and/or diarrhea in children
Some tips to avoid dehydration in the summer: avoid midday heat – UV rays and temperatures are usually highest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. – plan your outdoor activity out of these hours and out of direct sun, if possible; during activities, take drink breaks every 20 minutes and find a cool, shady place or spend some time indoors; and drink a minimum of 8 glasses or 2 litres of water. Have fun this summer and be safe!
