Water makes up more than 70 percent of your body’s tissues and plays a role in nearly every one of our bodily functions, from regulating temperature and cushioning joints to bringing oxygen to your cells and removing waste from your body. We have put together a quick list of ways to stay hydrated all summer (and year) long!
We suggest using the same bottle every day, or one similar. This will help build the habit that you need to consume X number of bottles per day. If you have a 16 oz bottle you know you need to drink 5 per day to hit your goal.
Electrolytes are made up of sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and calcium. We always carry electrolyte packets around in our bag or car as backup in case we find ourselves dehydrated or out in the sun longer than planned. The packets are great to have on hand and easy to add to a bottle of water. Sports drinks are also a great alternative as they usually have a balance of electrolytes and carbohydrates. It is important to check the sugar content, as most are loaded with sugar, which can actually contribute to dehydration.
Luckily, certain food choices can contribute to your daily water intake and make staying hydrated fun and easy! Many summer foods that are in season, such as melons, strawberries and tomatoes are rich in water, carbohydrates and minerals needed to help keep you hydrated. Another refreshing and cool food we suggest is fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies.
Enhance IVs have multiple benefits, including hydration. Whether you just finished a marathon, have been traveling, been sick or just haven’t been able to consume enough water, a Hydration Enhance IV may be a simple and quick solution to helping you feel better. The IV restores hydration, improves energy and replenishes electrolytes. At Foundations Medical Center we administer our IVs in a relaxing environment, and depending on your level of dehydration, it only takes an hour (it may be shorter if you are dehydrated).