It is almost taken for granted that in the colder months we do not get as dehydrated as we do in the summer months. Temperatures are not as high, we do not sweat as much, and perhaps even move a little less as staying in bed under those cosy sheets is so much more inviting. However, dehydration in winter is sneaky and can still cause a number of undesirable issues.
Let’s take a look at winter routines and habits that cause dehydration- see how many are part of your lifestyle and amend accordingly.
- Indoor Heat
- Whether it’s the AC on heat or a heater, at home or at the office. You are inhaling dry air while at work, at home, even when sleeping. Woke up with a dry cough? Now you know why. This is why hydration first thing in the morning is so essential.
- Layers, and layers of clothes
- We get it. It’s cold and you want to stay warm. Layering up will cause sweating, a d you know ow what sweating leads to.
- You stop carrying your bottle of water
- This is the biggest one. How many of us reduce our water intake and grab that extra coffee or tea (we’re guilty of this as well!)? Hey, we get it, we’re only human, but drinking less water while simultaneously drinking dehydrating drinks is a sure way of getting yourself dehydrated.
Of course, the signs of dehydration are always the same whether it’s in winter or summer; brain fog, dizziness, headaches, lethargy, weakness. The safest way to check your levels of hydration/dehydration is to check the colour of you urine. It should be a pale yellow, anything darker, grab that water.
We also understand that drinking water in winter can be quite challenging- we want to stay warm and water simply won’t do that. So here are some tips on how to keep optimal hydration levels this winter.
- Start the day with your electrolytes. As already pointed out, the morning is when we are the most dehydrated. So before you grab that coffee, have your water with electrolytes.
- For every cup of coffee or tea, have a glass of water. If you can opt for herbal teas even better.
- Carrying a bottle of water with you is still the safest way to have yourself sipping water throughout the day. Add electrolytes for flavour and to guarantee optimal hydration.
A healthy, and hydrated run to you all!
Blog written by Revival Rehydration and Recovery Salts team.
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