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When your body needs or consumes more liquids than it absorbs, you run the risk of getting dehydrated. When this happens, your body is unable to perform all of its functions properly.
Therefore, it’s essential to drink loads of water to stay hydrated, notably if you’re exercising or working out in the sun for prolonged periods. If you have plans to do anything outside, strive to do it during the cooler times of the day. Given Singapore’s hot and humid climate, make sure you’re dressed in light, comfortable apparel too.
Follow these tips to prevent dehydration.
Stay indoors
If at all feasible, stay indoors in an air-conditioned setting. It’s not a bad idea to head to the shopping mall or public library on weekends if you don’t have air-conditioning at home. Avoid sun exposure, especially between 10am and 3pm when the sun’s rays are at their harshest. Plan outdoor pursuits for early morning or evening time.
Drink when thirsty
It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day routines and forget to pay attention to your thirst prompts, but they are your body’s way of telling you that you need to start drinking up. Keep a bottle of water close to you and drink from it anytime you feel thirsty. Better still, drink water frequently now and then to avoid even reaching that parched condition.
Cut down on caffeine
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Caffeine, the primary active element in tea and coffee, is a diuretic, meaning it dehydrates the body. This is because when you consume tea or coffee, the amount of pee you produce climbs. Dehydration happens when your body’s fluid balance is disrupted, and caffeine, by increasing fluid loss through urination, conceivably leads to dehydration.
Snack on fruits and vegetables
Have a wide selection of fruits and veggies in your refrigerator for instant access. You can also choose frozen fruits and vegetables, which are just as nutritious as fresh ones, and in some circumstances, even more so. Fruits and veggies, both fresh and frozen, make ideal hydrating snacks due to their elevated moisture content.
Supplement intake when exercising
Drinking plain water is usually sufficient to prevent dehydration. However, certain occasions necessitate something more. For instance, those who participate in physical activities that last longer than an hour may need to restore their electrolytes, which can be done easily with a sports drink. Just make sure to read the nutritional information label first, as many of these beverages can be high in sugar and calories.
Natural biological activities cause us to lose water daily, but dehydration happens when we shed more bodily fluids than we take in. We need to keep the right balance of water and electrolytes in our bodies because humans are largely composed of water and electrolytes. Staying adequately hydrated can not only prevent you from getting those nasty side effects, but it will also make you feel better in general by preventing weariness, elevating your mood, and enhancing your cognitive abilities.
