As we enter the dog days of summer, we still have many weeks left before the temperature drops and fall begins. Fortunately, FitClub members workout inside where the high temperatures and higher humidity doesn’t raise the same concerns as might exist if you exercised outside in the sun. Even in an air conditioned facility like FitClub, dehydration remains a serious risk, particularly this time of year. Even mild dehydration can impact your neurological and cardiovascular systems. Your body may be warning you in unusual ways that you need more hydration. You just have to recognize the signs and increase your water intake.
Image
You’re more tired than usual. Fatigue can actually be one of your first symptoms of dehydration. Experts believe most people actually have no idea of how little water they are drinking and once they adjust and begin drinking the appropriate amount of water they are surprised how much better they feel and how much more energy they have.
Your skin is cool.We generally think of dehydration during the summer to be caused from heat, and it is, but when your body loses too much water it makes you skin feel cool instead of hot. If you’re working up a sweat, but your skin feels cool it’s time to rehydrate.
You have a nagging headache.A headache may be a sign of even mild dehydration. If you feel a headache coming on, try downing a glass of water before you reach for medication. To prevent headache-related dehydration, remember to drink 8 to 10 glasses of plain water each day.
You’re thirsty. This may seem to be the most obvious sign of dehydration, but by the time you feel thirsty, you’re already likely dehydrated.Your goal for staying hydrated should be to avoid feeling thirsty. This can be easily remedied by carrying a reusable water bottle with you and reminding yourself to sip throughout the day. If avoiding instead of fixing thirst is new to you, you might even want to set a reminder on your phone or watch to remind you when it’s time to take a drink whether you feel like you need it or not.
The bad news is even mild dehydration can have serious consequences for your entire body, as well as your physical and mental health. The good news is dehydration is easy to prevent. By simply drinking more water each day, you can maintain healthy levels of hydration. Without adding calories, caffeine, or added sugars, you can flavor the water with lemon, lime, or other tasty fruits to help your new habit taste as good as it will make you feel.
Whether you’re exercising in the air conditioning at FitClub or enjoying outdoor summer activities, stay hydrated to have a healthier summer!
What is your favorite way to stay hydrated? Leave your tips in the comments!
