How to Stay Hydrated in the Summer

Whether it’s walking around your neighborhood or taking a day trip to the beach, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the summer sun. Soaking up the sun has plenty of benefits, but there are a few consequences we also have to be mindful of. One result of spending too much time in the sun is dehydration.

Dehydration occurs when you use or lose more fluid in your body than you take in. This can result in abnormal body functions since there isn’t enough water to carry on normally. While staying hydrated is important for overall health at any point in our lives, it does become increasingly crucial as we age. Older adults are more likely to become dehydrated and have a more negative outcome.

Thankfully, there are tips and tricks for you to use to stay hydrated and enjoy your summer days in a healthy way.

Tips for Proper Hydration

Drink Plenty of Fluids: The best way to ensure proper hydration is to drink plenty of fluids. Keep a water bottle or cup with you at all times to make it even easier for yourself. Water is an excellent choice to keep you hydrated, but you can also switch it up to include milk, juice or flavored water. Although the general recommendation is to drink eight glasses worth of water a day, you may need more or less, depending on your body’s needs and activity level. Discuss with your healthcare provider what a reasonable amount of fluid consumption would be for your particular situation.

Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables: Drinking fluids is the fastest way to properly hydrate your body, but eating fruits and vegetables can also help your hydration levels. Certain produce is fluid-rich, meaning it contains larger amounts of water and helps your body’s fluid level. Hydrating foods include cucumbers, watermelon, pineapple, celery and blueberries.

Learn the Signs of Dehydration: By learning the early signs of dehydration, you’re able to increase fluid intake before any serious effects can start to take place. Although every person’s body is different and you may or may not experience some of these effects, the general signs of dehydration for adults include:

• Extreme thirst
• Less frequent urination
• Dark-colored urine
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Discover a Personalized Wellness Program at Monroe Village

At Monroe Village, your health and wellness are of the utmost priority. Along with these hydration tips and tricks, we offer numerous activities, amenities and services designed with your overall health and wellbeing in mind. This is made possible through LivWell, our holistic wellness program. The best part about LivWell is that it is personalized for your goals and wellness needs – we simply help guide you to the things you need to be your healthiest self.

To learn more about the LivWell program and how we can help you along your wellness journey, contact our expert team today.