How to Stay Hydrated During the Hot Summer Months

As the weather warms up, staying hydrated is very important! Your hydration affects both your mental and physical health, so you will want to be sure that your fluid intake is enough to help you stay feeling your best. If you work outside, or exercise and get a lot of physical activity, you probably need more than if you weren’t doing these things. 

Knowing the why behind the things we are required to do, like drinking lots of water, can be helpful to get us to actually do the things we should be doing! In order for your cells, tissues, and organs to work properly, they need water. Water gets rid of wastes through urination, perspiration and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints and protects sensitive tissues. 

I know it can be a struggle to get enough fluids on the best of days, let alone the extra amount we need when it is hot. I’ve rounded up some simple and effective ways to help you keep up your hydration so you can feel your best all summer long!

• Everyone is different and has different hydration needs - drink the right amount for you. 
• Keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times.
• Set yourself a reminder to drink water throughout your day.
• Monitor your caffeine and alcohol intake.
• Add flavour - there are lots of sugar-free and healthy options available! 
• Drink water at these key times: With each meal and between meals; Before, during and after exercise; If you feel thirsty.
• What you eat also provides a significant portion of your water intake. For example, many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and spinach, are almost 100% water by weight. So fill up on these goodies!

You will get a good idea if your fluid intake is adequate if you rarely feel thirsty and your urine is colourless or light yellow. So be sure to pay attention to this, as it will  indicate how you are doing and if you need to drink up :)  Drinking too much water is rarely an issue!