4 Ways to Counter Dehydration During the Summer Heat

The summertime offers the best opportunities for your family to enjoy outdoor exercise and activities. But while staying well-hydrated is just as important year-round, it becomes especially crucial during the warm months of summer. Lacking proper hydration can be damaging to both your physical and cognitive health.

Jane E. Brody of The New York Times states that "Inadequate hydration can cause fatigue, poor appetite, heat intolerance, dizziness, constipation, kidney stones and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Brain effects include mood shifts, muddled thinking, inattentiveness and poor memory."

Avoid running the risk of dehydration by following these tips:

Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. Instead, be proactive by consuming enough liquid before, during, and after meals and physical activity. With the majority of our body being water (55% of the elderly and 75% of infants), we need to be constantly replenishing ourselves.

Eat plant foods naturally packed with water. Fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, carrots, peppers, watermelon, strawberries, pineapple, grapes, apples, and pears all contain a high percentage of water. Snack away!

Check the color of your urine. Dark urine typically indicates dehydration. The paler it is, the better.

Start hydrating the day before strenuous physical activity. If you're expecting to engage in exercise or spend time outdoors on a hot day, prepare your body the day prior. Continue hydrating during your activity and for hours afterwards as well.