How to Stay Hydrated in Cold Weather
Although cool winter days can be a welcome change to the summer’s stifling heat, you may not have realized that you’re more at risk of dehydration in winter than in summer. Dehydration is often thought of as a summer health problem, but the risk can be more threatening during the cooler months.
The body is made up of 70 percent water. It is essential for our health to maintain that level of water to regulate the metabolism. If this percent drops, the heart will be deprived of fluid and will need to pump harder to circulate the blood, decreasing the blood volume. For preservation, the body directs blood flow to the body core and the organs. To prevent dehydration in cold weather, check out these tips.
- Keep Sipping
We lose water throughout the day from respiration and perspiration. Just because you’re not sweating as much as during the cooler months doesn’t mean you’re staying hydrated. You may feel less thirsty when you’re cold than when you’re warm, but try to make it instinct to keep sipping on water. Set your watch or phone alarm to ping every 15 to 30 minutes and have a big swig of water. If you don’t feel like drinking cold water, opt for a warm, non-caffeinated drink, such as a hot tea.
- Eat Your Water
Believe it or not but your diet can help you stay hydrated when you’re not guzzling down water. Food counts for 20 to 30 percent of our daily water intake. Aim to eat more water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, watermelon, tomatoes grapefruit, oranges, pineapple, and eggplant. Other water-rich foods are brown rice, black beans, and quinoa.
- Know Common Symptoms of Dehydration
It can be harder to recognize dehydration in winter, which makes it more dangerous. Keep in mind these symptoms that could indicate you’re not reaching your fluid requirements:
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased fatigue
- Lightheadedness
- Irritability
If you do get dehydrated this winter despite your efforts, IV hydration can help. IV fluids start to rehydrate you immediately and works faster than drinking water. If you’re in need of hydration therapy, contact Sand Canyon Urgent Care. With facilities in Irvine (949 -417-0272) and Stanton (714-604-2850), we are ready to help.
