In a recent study, 48% of adults admitted to the hospital had signs of dehydration in their lab tests.
Multiple studies report that 75% of adults in the U.S. suffer from chronic dehydration. With the summer heat arriving, staying hydrated is critical to the healthy functioning of our body and brain, according to Vicki Beseke, executive director of VerdeCares, the volunteer health service agency serving the Verde Communities.
Drinking ample water on a daily basis is the best advice healthcare providers can offer. The hydration helps the body transport nutrients and oxygen, protects organs, lubricates joints, energizes muscles. It also counters dehydration from coffee, alcohol, medications and exercise. It also keeps skin looking young and soft.
Good hydration also helps one to think more clearly.
There are ways other than what might be considered boring water, although water should be a main part of the therapy.
Eat water-rich foods such as watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, spinach, cucumber, radish, bell peppers, celery, broccoli, eggplant, yogurt, garlic, salads, broth-based soups oatmeal.
A couple of little-known facts: A little milk before water helps to retain a third of the fluid consumed for up to four hours longer.
One of the best electrolyte replacement drinks is coconut water. Coconut water has electrolytes and is recommended for everyone, especially Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients.
Infuse water with fruits, herbs and botanicals. This helps one drink plenty of liquids without the downside of excess calories and sugars.
Check out stats on daily water needs, dehydration dangers, reasons people get dehydrated, how infusing water with essence of fruits, herbs and other botanicals offers nutrition and hydration in every sip, visit verdecares.org/dehydration.
More information is available by contacting the VerdeCares office. Summer office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about the services available contact the VerdeCares office at 480-471-8944.
