Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center Staying Hydrated as the Temperatures Rise

By Mikala Henzlik

Drinking water is critical because it is involved in nearly every activity in your body, including protecting your organs and tissues, carrying nutrients to your cells, and regulating your body temperature. As we move into the hot summer months, it is important to make sure you are giving your body enough water to keep it functioning at its best.

How much water is enough?

Aim for 8 cups (64 ounces, 2 liters) of water per day as a starting point. Many people need more than 2 liters/day (fluid needs vary person to person). During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level.

Your level of thirst is not always the best indicator of your hydration status. One of the easiest ways to know if you are meeting your fluid needs is by assessing the color of your urine. Pale yellow urine indicates you are well-hydrated. Honey-colored urine indicates you are dehydrated. Check out the chart above to know what colors to look for. Dehydration can be very dangerous. Other signs of dehydration include: dry mouth, tiredness, dizziness, confusion, muscle cramps, decreased urine output, dry skin, or extreme thirst.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

There are many types of drinks to choose from to meet your fluid needs; some options are better than others.

Drink more of these:

• Water
• Fruit flavored water
• Unsweetened tea
• Reduced fat milk

And limit these:

• Alcohol
• Soda
• Energy Drinks
• Sweetened teas and coffee
• Fruit juice with added sugar

Include more hydrating foods in your day! Some examples of hydrating foods with a water content of 90% or greater:

• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Peppers
• Lettuce
• Watermelon
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Cantaloupe
• Celery
• Cabbage
• Strawberries
• Grapefruit
• Baby Carrots
• Zucchini
• Squash
• Star Fruit
• Radishes
• Cauliflower

Benefits of Being Well-Hydrated

• Better energy and endurance
• Improved digestion and less constipation
• Reduced risk of kidney stones and bladder infections
• Improved healing time
• Fewer headaches

More Tips:

• Add fruit, a splash of juice or extracts to water to enhance the taste
  • Berries, pineapple, orange slices
  • Mint, lavender, rosemary
• Drink from a cup that has a favorite design or message
• Set a reminder or alarm on your phone to remind you to reach for water
• Place a reminder at your desk or on your fridge
• Keep a reusable water bottle or mug in your common places: bedroom, desk, travel bag, breakroom
• Drink a full glass of water if you need to take a pill
• Download an app on your phone that helps you track your daily water intake (Plant Nanny, My Water Balance, Daily Water Tracker, and many more available on an app store!)

More Information

For additional resources to healthy eating, check out these programs from our registered dietitian nutritionists. Find delicious and healthy recipes on our Recipes page! More health tips are also available at the College of Health and Human Sciences Pinterest board. Lastly, don’t forget to sign up for the KRNC monthly newsletter!