HEALTH AND WELLNESS
TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2026 | 19
brain ' s way of warning individuals that they are dehydrated. So it ' s unwise to wait until you ' re thirsty to drink water.
A proactive approach can help to prevent dehydration, especially when spending time outdoors on hot days.
Take breaks for water A mid-morning coffee break or a mid-afternoon snack break are part of many people ' s daily routines. You also can incorporate drinking water into your daily routine. When pouring your morning coffee or tea, pour yourself a glass of water as well.
When reaching for a midafternoon snack, pour yourself another glass of water.
Keep a water journal
Documenting your daily water intake is one way to overcome forgetfulness in relation to remaining hydrated.
Smartphone apps like Water Reminder and Plant Nanny can help people remember to drink water throughout the day.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach to journaling, keep a small notebook near your desk or in your pocket when going outdoors so you can always know when your most recent water break occurred.
Look to foods to stay hydrated
Drinking water isn ' t the only way to ensure you stay hydrated. Various foods are loaded with water. Henry Ford Health ® notes that watermelon, berries, bell peppers, and grapes are water-rich foods that can help you stay hydrated.
Dehydration can creep up on hot summer days and put people in serious jeopardy. That ' s why it ' s imperative that people make a concerted effort to hydrate and do not wait until they ' re thirsty to enjoy a glass of water on a hot summer day.