Hot summer days bring with them the risk of dehydration

12. 6. 2014

Summer hasn't even started yet, but the last few days have been very challenging for all of us with their tropical temperatures. In the heat we need to remember to drink, even though our subjective feeling of thirst may not be very pronounced. At the same time, it is advisable to avoid too much physical activity, not to be in direct sunlight, to wear a head covering and to ventilate the house ideally in the early evening, at night and in the early morning hours.

According to the calendar, summer hasn't even started yet, yet the last few days have been extreme in terms of temperature. And in the heat, we need to remember to drink, even though our subjective feeling of thirst may not be very pronounced. In fact, the feeling of thirst may not correspond to the actual need for fluids at all.

On hot days, our body reacts by sweating, which causes us to cool down. However, sweating does not only cause a loss of fluid, as is sometimes mistakenly stated, but also of minerals. Mineral waters in particular are therefore an ideal source of replenishment. Other suitable fluids include spring water, green and fruit teas, and natural fruit or vegetable juices diluted with water. On the other hand, coffee and black tea are inappropriate due to their caffeine content, as well as sweetened or energy drinks.

Other drinking rules (not only in summer) include:
- regular fluid intake throughout the day
- not waiting for the feeling of thirst
- Drink at least 2-3 litres of fluid throughout the day, and more than that if physical exertion increases
- the temperature of drinks should be around 10-12°C, so do not leave liquids in direct sunlight
- include more fluid-rich foods in your diet, such as soups, plenty of fruit and vegetables

On hot days it is also advisable to avoid too much physical activity, stay out of direct sunlight, especially around midday, wear a head covering and ventilate your home ideally in the early evening, at night and in the early morning.