“ For us , being out in the heat of the summer season makes things a little different .”
Scorching temps are well on their way during this summer season . Gear up and make sure you have everything you need to stay healthy and hydrated while enjoying all of your favorite activities !
1 . Body Temp vs . Water Temp Everyone has their own opinion when it comes to what temperature water should be at when you drink it . For us , being out in the heat of the summer season makes things a little different . During a regular workout , sure , you should be consuming nice , cold drinks to help regulate your body temperature as you start to heat up .
However , if you know you ’ re going to be outside in the heat for a long period of time , it is best to avoid those ice-cold drinks . While they may feel great going down , the icy temperature of cold water can actually constrict your stomach muscles , sending your body into a state of shock . Drastic temperature changes aren ’ t good for your body , so make sure your water is cool enough to satisfy you , but not too cold overall .
2 . Not Thirsty ? Drink Anyway ! Don ’ t wait until your mouth is dry and you ’ re dying of thirst to take a drink . For every hour you ’ re outside , you should be consuming a bottle of water easily . If plain old water just doesn ’ t do it for you all day , reach for a sports drink or a vitamin-enriched water . These extra goodies in each drink will help satisfy your thirst and give you a little pickme-up during the hottest of days .
3 . Carry A Water Bottle 24 / 7 Studies show that adults who carried bottles of water around with them were much more likely to stay hydrated than those who intermittently stopped for beverages . Stopping what you ’ re doing to get a drink means you ’ ll be looking for deeper satisfaction in the thirstquenching department , and you ’ ll be tempted to grab a soda or a
coffee instead of a glass of water . Studies also proved that those who drank water regularly throughout the day had little-to-no headaches , felt more alert and energetic , and had increased joint and skin health . Not to mention , having a water bottle always on hand will help you accomplish tip number 2 with little effort .
4 . Monitor Your Bathroom Breaks Not sure if you ’ re staying hydrated ? Check your urine . Physicians recommend that your urine should have a slight yellow tint , but be mostly clear – this color range is a sign that your body is hydrated and healthy . Darker yellow tints , to brownish urine in color , symbolized moderate to severe hydration . So , if your urine is on the darker side , you should definitely be drinking more water on a regular basis . If you notice that your urine is dark and this concerns you , do not try to guzzle down a gallon of water in an hour . Relax , and increase your intake gradually throughout the day , and you ’ ll see immediate improvement during your next bathroom break .
5 . Eat Plenty of Fruits & Veggies You don ’ t have to just drink water to maintain hydration . When you ’ re out and about this summer , opt for bringing along some juicy fruit or have a big , green salad for lunch . Eating the proper foods is supposed to account for 20 % of your daily water intake , so keep this in mind next time you reach for a burger . Planning a picnic in the sun , or a holiday barbecue ? That ’ s great ! Add a fruit salad to the menu , and your body will thank you in the long run .
Whatever you ’ ve got planned for this summer , one thing is for sure : you need to stay hydrated ! It ’ s no fun when you have a big day ahead of you , and you suddenly fall ill or fatigued due to dehydration . And worse yet , dehydration can take a toll on you in the middle of your activities ! By following these tips , you ’ ll ensure that your summer includes both , staying hydrated , and fun in the sun !
Adventure Outdoors | Summer 2018 | 83