July is typically the hottest month of the year in Florida, according to climate data, with August following closely behind. With average temperatures reaching close to 100 degrees, and a consistently high percentage of humidity, it’s more important than ever to stay hydrated.
The effects of dehydration are not something you want to experience. Unfortunately, dehydration can onset quickly if you aren’t adamant about water intake. Especially if you work outdoors!
Here are 7 tips to help you stay hydrated this summer:
- Drink lots of water.
This may seem like a given but it’s crazy how many people barely drink water throughout the day. Just because you are drinking fluids does not necessarily mean you are staying hydrated. You should drink at least half of your body weight in ounces each day to stay hydrated.
- Decrease caffeine intake.
Caffeine and caffeinated beverages are considered diuretics that work against hydration. They deplete your body’s water instead of adding to it. Therefore drinking a lot of coffee and barely any water can be a dangerous combination.
- Carry a large bottle of water at all times.
You are much more likely to drink an adequate amount of water if that goal is visible each day. Versus water bottles that you easily lose count of. You can even draw lines on your water jug that represent times of the day in which you want to reach a certain goal.
- Drink other fluids.
Although drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, there are a lot of other great fluid options. Certain drinks such as Gatorade, flavored water, juices, etc. help you stay hydrated as well as help you replace electrolytes, minerals, and other vital elements.
- Keep track of your bathroom breaks.
A telltale sign that you are getting enough fluids is the color of your urine. It may sound a bit crazy but the color of your urine is directly related to your hydration. The less hydrated you are, the darker yellow it will be. The more hydrated you are, the lighter in color it will be.
- Eat fruits and vegetables.
Not only do you absorb water from the things you drink, but from what you eat as well! Fruits and vegetables in particular are a great source of liquids to consume each day. Especially things like watermelon, pineapple, and other citrus fruits.
- Stay cool.
Heat and humidity will dehydrate you very quickly. It is important to drink plenty of fluids but also to manage your time outside wisely. Take breaks when you need it, and make sure to get some time in the shade.
We hope you utilize these tips to stay hydrated this summer. From Waldron Carpentry, we wish you a safe, happy, and hydrated summer!