Ah the days of summer are here. In Florida that means high heat and higher humidity. This is beach and pool weather, time to grab a fluffy towel and bask in the sunshine state! Just make sure while you are doing so that you stay hydrated.
Dehydration accounts for nearly 300 deaths yearly and experts estimate that approximately 75% of the population is chronically dehydrated! These are shocking numbers. We all think we drink enough water, but clearly that isn’t the case. Now add sunshine and heat and you have a potential recipe for trouble.
While you may say “hang on, wait a minute… I drink 8 glasses of liquid a day”…
What you may not be taking into account is that you may be counting in those 8 glasses alcohol, caffeinated beverages, or eating a lot of salt. All of those things dehydrate and count against the 8 glass rule of thumb.
If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
Dehydration can cause foggy thinking, irritability, memory issues, tiredness, and puts you at risk for kidney stones and other problems related to build up of toxins. When you don’t have enough water flowing through you your body cannot eliminate chemicals you come in contact with be it through food, air, or contact.
Staying hydrated boosts your metabolism. So if you need some extra motivation to get a good solid gallon of water a day in, there you go. It can benefit your health tremendously.
Dangerous signs you are dehydrated past the point where you can simply drink more water include:
- Disorientation
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sunken eyes
- Dry skin
- Fainting
- Dark urine or worse not being able to urinate at all
If you reach this stage, please do go to your nearest ER clinic you will need medical attention to get yourself properly re-hydrated and re-balanced on your electrolytes.
Be proactive this summer. Grab a big water jug and set your goal for the day. You may just be surprised how much better you feel when you have all the H2O your body needs!
For more wellness tips to make your life easier and keep you feeling great sign up for our newsletter or stop back often!
Like us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/fortmyerschiropractic/
Our office is located at 1791 Boy Scout Dr, # 6 Fort Myers, Florida 33907 and can be reached by calling 239-332-2555