How to Stay Hydrated during Summer

Are you dehydrated? If you are always feeling thirsty, then yes, you must be dehydrated. Most of us must have experienced being thirsty and dry all the summer months. It could be a symptom of mild, moderate or acute dehydration, and everyone should be aware that dehydration can sometimes be deadly and should not be ignored.

We could say that even if we assume we are getting enough fluids in a normal drinking behavior, we can't really measure how a person would stay hydrated especially if we look into the age difference. Children and adults differ with their needs in staying hydrated. Children are more susceptible to dehydration as well as older people.

Basics of dehydration are very simple, our bodies need enough amount of fluid to function properly, and when there is not enough liquid in our body, the body tends to function abnormally. This causes physical exhaustion, thirst, headaches, changes in mood, and even cell depletion. Some experts in the Middle East have considered the rising number of patients suffering from dehydration such as symptoms of kidney problems, ulcers, and urine infections. So how do you know when you are feeling dehydrated? When dehydrated, the amount of fluids (water) that your body is losing is more than the amount of water that your body is taking. Simple observation: when you notice a stronger color, concentrated and odor in your urine, it means that you are not drinking enough water. So what is the recommended daily amount of water during summer? The recommended daily amount of water during the summer is between 10-12 glasses of water every day.

Aside from water you can also try other alternatives like:

• Coconut water
• Refreshment products of all types.
• Fruits : Bananas, Watermelon
• Oral rehydration salts
• Salt baths for your skin cells can be very helpful. And we often ask, how do we prevent ourselves from being dehydrated during hot weather? It is true that drinking water is the most important thing to do, even when not thirsty.

However some habits that you can do to avoid dehydration during hot weather may include:
1. Getting away from the sun especially when it is hotter and the UV rays is potent. Avoid the sun in the middle of the day – and exercise or do more outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
2. Wear sunscreen, sun visors, sunglasses, or scarf's to avoid sunburn and skin dehydration.
3. Wear loose clothing as it allows good ventilation for your body, and helps your sweat dry faster.
4. Keep away from dark clothing as it attracts more heat than light clothing.

In his comments on the topic, a spokesperson from Dubai Refreshments Company said:” Summer in the Middle East can bring out the worst in any resident living here. When it is summer, the heat and humidity is just unforgiving. Dehydration is just one of the many things you can experience in Middle East during summer. And dehydration can alter every one's mood, energy level and ability to think clearly. Some might feel irritated or tired, and that is just normal. However, balance and regular intake of fluids either water, or other drinks can make a difference to anyone. It is safe to say that water is your best friend during this season.” Keeping yourself hydrated all the time during summer can help your body adjust to the gruesome weather here in Middle East. All you have to do is to practice doing the above suggestions and keep drinking water or natural sports drinks of high quality to increase your hydration levels.