It’s important to stay hydrated in the summer

Here are some ways to see if you’ve been drinking enough water.

Water is essential to life—without it, we couldn’t supply nutrients to our body, remove waste, or regenerate our cells. While your family doctor recommends you drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body healthy, it is especially important to stay on top of hydration during the summer to prevent heat stroke and other forms of heat related illness. To stay healthy and happy all summer long, explore this list of top summer hydration tips. 

Family Doctor’s Top 5 Summer Hydration Tips 

1. Drink Before You’re Thirsty  

Once we realize we are thirsty, we are already dehydrated. During summer, it is important to drink water before you experience thirst to avoid illness. Family doctors recommend you aim for 8 glasses of water per day and drink more during the summer if you are especially hot or thirsty. Have a glass or two of water before you engage in outdoor activities and bring a water bottle with you if you leave home. 

2. Avoid Dehydrating Beverages 

Reconsider your choice of soda, beer, liquor, coffee, and juices at summer picnics and parties because they’re dehydrating. Instead, pick up an 8 oz. glass of water. If you want to enjoy an iced tea or lemonade on the boat or poolside, alternate it with water. Alcohol, in particular, is very dehydrating and should be avoided during the heat of summer. 

3. Exercise With Caution 

If you plan on exercising during summer, do it with caution. Try to schedule sports and activities in the AC or swap your jogging routine for indoor swimming or yoga. If you do plan on golfing, walking, or playing a game of basketball, take water with you. 

4. Check Your Urine 

One of the most reliable ways to tell if you are dehydrated is to check the color of your urine. The next time you go to the bathroom, look to see if your urine is a pale yellow color. If it is, you are likely drinking enough water. If it is darker, like the color of apple juice, you need to hydrate better. 

5. Eat Whole Foods  

A diet rich in whole foods can supplement your water intake and make you better equipped for activity during summer. Kale, romaine lettuce, fruits, and yogurt all contain a rich supply of water and will help boost your vitamin stores. 

Stay hydrated this summer so that you are healthy enough to enjoy the fun of the season.

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This article was originally published on Nearsay.com by Dardanelle, Yell