August 2025 Heath Tip

by J. Renee Livsey |  August 1, 2025

 
This summer we have had record temperatures, with most days having a heat index in the triple digits. Our goal this evening is to ensure that we know how to keep ourselves safe, healthy, and protected from the intense heat.
 
During the summer, we must be proactive about staying hydrated, especially if we spend extended periods of time. Feeling thirsty is one of the most obvious signs of dehydration, followed by a dry mouth and lips, darker colored urine, and the need to use the toilet less often - the average person urinates about every 3 to 4 hours. In severe cases, you might start to feel lethargic, dizzy or even confused. In high heat, dehydration can become severe and even fatal.
 
It is important to drink plenty of fluids before you attend outside activities. If you start these activities while dehydrated, it’s even harder to replenish what your body has lost. The amount of water that we need varies by person, and depends on our health and activity level. Experts generally recommend drinking several glasses of water per day to meet your hydration needs, but that can be too much for someone, for instance, on a fluid restriction. One way to tell if you’re drinking enough water throughout the day is to monitor the color of your urine. If it’s the color of lemonade, you’re good to go. If it’s closer to apple juice or sweet tea, you may need to drink more water.

Water is the most healthy source of hydration because it contains no additives, calories, sugar, or other ingredients. However, if you do not like the taste of plain water, try adding a few slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or oranges to your bottle of water. While drinking water is very important, fresh fruits and vegetables contain a large amount of water too. Try to have oranges, peaches, grapes, watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, salad greens available for snacks as opposed to chips, cookies, ect.

By following these tips, you can effectively stay hydrated and maintain your health during hot weather. Remember, hydration is crucial for regulating our body temperature, supporting brain function, and keeping our joints lubricated.