The basic way of staying hydrated is drinking water. Doctors suggest a minimum of six to eight ounce glasses per day. However, those with more active lifestyles may require more due to heavier water loss. Other beverages may be consumed, although, they cannot take the place of water. Fruit and vegetable juices are beneficial, but could have too much sugar. Caffeinated drinks, …show more content…
Such foods include watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, cucumber, lettuce, and celery. A study has shown that eating any of those mentioned after exercising hydrates more than a glass of water. This is because they replenish natural sugars, amino acids, mineral salts, and vitamins lost in exercise.
The water you drink helps your body function in many ways. In hot weather or while exercising, water is lost through sweating. The sweat evaporates and cools the skin, lowering body temperature to prevent overheating. To clean the body, water travels through the circulatory system collecting waste. This waste is then excreted through urinating. Lastly, to move your limbs and self with ease, water lubricates joints.
The signs of dehydration are often noticeable. Dry, cracking lips and thirst are usually the first symptoms of dehydration. Then there is little or no urine, or darkened urine. Eventually, there will be dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. Those suffering from more severe dehydration face worse than discomfort. Lack of water can result in rapid heart rate, fevers, shock, and seizures. If a person faints, has difficulty breathing, or feels chest or abdominal pain, they must be taken to a hospital