By Coach Thurman
Consuming water (H2O) each day is important for a variety of reasons, its helps control body temperature, keeps your joints lubricated, helps prevent infections, delivers nutrients to your cells, keeps your organs working, and removes waste from your body. I can’t tell you how much water to drink due to every person’s body being different. Each person requires different amounts of water. As for me, I consume approximately a gallon of water a day but for someone else that maybe entirely too much. You can obtain water from other sources other straight up H2O. I would recommend to stay away from drinks high in sugar and/or caffeine. Stick with water first, sport drinks with carbs and electrolytes so your body can absorb water.
Ways to Stay Hydrated:
- Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink water. Drink it throughout the day.
- Add some flavor to your water if you need taste.
- Eat fruits and vegetables high in water content such as watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapples, cucumbers, etc.
- Limit time in the hot sun.
- Dress according to the weather and environment.
- Know the signs of dehydration.
Signs of Dehydration:
- Little to no urine.
- Darker than usual urine.
- Not urinating despite drinking water.
- Muscle cramps.
- Confusion.
- Dry mouth/skin.
- Dizziness or lightheaded.
- Fatigue.
Be mindful with the summer heat and the intense workout that we do. Remember to consume water and stay hydrated.
