We all love to get out in the sun and enjoy the weather, but dehydration is always something we need to worry about. With summer right around the corner, it is especially important to monitor how much you're drinking and how much you're sweating.

Dehydration is a problem for everyone, but is specifically a problem for younger people and the elderly. These age groups should take all steps necessary to detect and prevent dehydration. Signs of dehydration include:

  • Little to no urination
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Dry mouth or cracked lips
  • Dizziness and confusion
  • Dry Skin

If you or anyone you know is experiencing these symptoms of dehydration, it is important to cool your body down and drink fluids. However, the best thing to do is to be prepared and prevent dehydration in the first place.

Below are five ways to prevent dehydration:

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    1

    Drink Water Consistently

    Throughout the day, drink water consistently rather than occasionally. You may not always feel thirsty, but it is important to constantly drink water regardless and stay hydrated. The average water intake goal is around 8 cups of water a day. Failure to aim to reach this goal can lead to dehydration.

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    2

    Avoid Certain Drinks

    Drinks that include caffeine and alcohol are a highway to dehydration. This is because they are diuretics, which means they cause you to urinate frequently. Urinating frequently removes fluids in your body and leads to dehydration. Because of this, drinks like coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages are best to stay away from.

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    3

    Eat Watery Foods

    In addition to being delicious, certain fruits and vegetables hold an exceptionally high water content. Snacking on these foods increases your water intake and helps to combat dehydration. The best snacks to eat are celery, cucumber, tomatoes, watermelon, grapes, cantaloupe, and more. Work these foods into your diet to combat dehydration!

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    Dress Yourself Appropriately

    In the summer, it is important to dress appropriately according to the weather. Wearing dark or heavy clothes will cause you to sweat more and can lead to dehydration. Instead, wear light-colored clothes that are loose-fitting and are able to breathe. This will limit the amount you are sweating and is a great way to avoid dehydration!

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    5

    Take Breaks

    If you feel yourself becoming too hot, it is extremely important to take a break from whatever you are doing. If you can, find shelter in a place that is preferably air-conditioned or well-ventilated. When in shelter, sit down, relax, and drink some water. Once you start to feel better, you can continue whatever you were doing, but don’t forget to watch out for the signs of dehydration!

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