Water H20

H20

It’s the middle of summer and the weather forecast for Sydney is to embrace themselves for another heatwave in the low 40’s. As I continue to listen the news reporter reminds people especially for the young and the old to keep hydrated. It seems logical. Yet, many infants and the elderly are at high risk of becoming dehydrated.

Infants rely on adults to keep them hydrated and they need a higher turnover of fluids than adults. In comparison, the elderly have a reduced sensation to thirst and may also have a less sufficient renal system. To add to the risk if they are on diuretic medications such as helping lower blood pressure they are at higher risk.

Why it is important to stay hydrated.

Hydration is necessary to stay healthy. Hydration supports the maintenance of your brain, heart and muscles functioning at their best. Water carries nutrients to your cells and flushes unwanted toxins away from your body.

What is dehydration?

Dehydration is when the body loses too much water. This occurs through sweating, toilet breaks and breathing out (exhaling). Vomiting and diarrhoea additionally sees the body lose large volumes of water.

Ordinarily, when we drink water and consume food we replace the water loss. However, dehydration occurs when the fluid is not being replaced fast enough and an imbalance occurs.

Tips for keeping hydrated.

Drink water, water is always best.
With the exception of alcohol, soda water, juices, smoothies, tea, coffee and other drinks containing sugar even if they lack nutritional value still keep you hydrated. Yes, you heard right, tea and coffee count towards hydration. It was once believed that these two beverages containing caffeine dehydrated you, but this belief has now been debunked.

Eat fruit. Eating fruit keeps you hydrated. Fruit contains a high water content and include minerals that help your body absorb the water.

Regulate your body temperature. If you feel hot remove excess clothing.

On extremely hot days:
- If outside: move into the shade or seek a pool of water where you can submerge yourself or
a part of your body.
- If inside: close up the house and keep it dark. Keep windows closed, fans and or air-
conditioning on. Now is the time to do less strenuous activities.