Dehydration: What You Need to Know
So, I recently succumbed to dehydration and have been laid up for the past few days…but I survived and have some tips.
It’s hot this summer which makes me give a little more weight to that whole global warming argument. But, as we all know, dangers lurk in extreme environments and there are a few things that hot weather people should know.
The most important is that dehydration can claim anyone, even if you love being out in the hot sun and you’ve never had problems in the past.
Last week I nearly fainted when I went outside. It was so hot that I was dizzy and sweating so profusely that I knew something was wrong. I checked my temperature and it had risen to 100 degrees, and for me, a solid 95.2 is my average.
Clearly I either had sun stroke or I was suffering from dehydration.
My research led me to understand that there are four essential electrolytes that the body needs for basic survival:
*magnesium
*potassium
*calcium
*sodium
These basic electrolytes can be replenished in a variety of ways. Home remedies suggested a cup of water with baking soda alongside another glass of water mixed with some form of citrus drink, like orange juice. I felt pretty crappy so I wasn’t willing to try such home methods, but now I see that there is some sense there. The baking soda would have a level of magnesium to it, and the citric acid from orange juice would work in combination to help in the body’s absorption.
The best remedy, however, is a mix of water and powerade. About half and half. A few glasses of that will help the body absorb the lost electrolytes and should help in the recovery from dehydration.
Also, a few tips.
*drink plenty of water the day before you expect to spend time in the heat, this will allow your body to prepare
*if you find that you’re thirsty–it’s probably too late, you need to get drinking right away.
Liked it
