It’s summertime!
With that sun and that heat comes sweat, and that means staying hydrated becomes extra important. Especially when exercising! Fluids preserve the health of and provide nutrients to every organ in your body. Proper hydration is essential for your body to function.
General Guidelines for Staying Hydrated
How much water should you drink per day?
- 6 – 8 glasses per day
- Half your body weight in ounces
- At least 2 liters
While these guidelines are good, they aren’t perfect. Not everyone requires the same amount of water to stay hydrated and also proper hydration depends on what you are doing! Therefore listening to your body and knowing the signs of dehydration is important.
Signs & Symptoms of Dehydration
- Headache
- A dehydrated body means there is less blood circulating throughout, and when the brain doesn’t get enough blood you experience headaches
- Muscle Cramps & Aches
- This is a big one! Ever question why your muscles cramp during exercise? Or just while walking?
- Without enough fluid, our muscles may become sensitive and spasm, or contract, involuntarily
- Joint Pain
- Water is needed to flush our bodies of cellular waste/toxins. A lack of water may result in a buildup of toxins and may lead to inflammation, which causes pain.
- Water also helps lubricate our joints
Just Take a Sip!
As we mentioned before, proper dehydration depends on a variety of factors. It could depend on:
- The temperature
- Your body size and strength
- If you are ill
- If you are exercising
Hot temperatures, larger bodies, illness, and while exercising will all require extra hydration. However, when in doubt, just take a sip! Get in the habit of carrying water with you wherever you go, and your body will thank you.
Come exercise with ProMet’s Physical Therapists at one of our Glendale, Briarwood or Manhasset locations to build strength in a safe way and we’ll help you figure out your specific hydration needs!
