Feel the heat!
The heat this summer has defiantly been high. News reports have reported it being one of the hottest summers we’ve seen. Although we have made our way through the major summer months, June and July, we must still take precautions when it comes to our health when it comes to the heat.
Your body and water
The body is made up of water. The body uses water to cool itself, regulate temperature, aid the kidneys and digestive functions, and protects the body’s tissues and organs. Your body is approximately 60% water composition (Mayo Clinic, Diseases and Conditions: Definitions 2014). Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are getting enough of it to function properly.
How much?
How much water one needs, is dependent on a few varying factors. The Institute of Medicine recommends about 9 cups for women and 13 cups for men daily (Institute of Medicine, 2005). The amount of water one needs daily varies from person to person. Depending on your location, health status, and activity level, your body may require more or less water. Knowing your own body and its’ own need is very important.
Health concerns
Anytime the body loses liquid, in any form (sweat, urine, respiration etc.), it must be replaced. If too much is lost at one time, or it is not adequately replenished, some threatening issues may arise. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke may be issues that face one’s well-being.
Definitions according to the Mayo Clinic (2014)
- Dehydration is when your body uses up its water and does not have an adequate amount to keep properly functioning.
- Heat exhaustion is when an individual experiences increased sweating and heightened pulse, a consequence of the body overheating.
- Heat stroke is when an individual overheats after being in an environment at a high temperature for a prolonged amount of time.
All three of these conditions are dangerous conditions and can become life threatening if not addressed properly.
Keep drinking
Your best guard when it comes to the summer heat and staying hydrated is awareness. Be aware of the daily temperature and staying clear of the heat of the day, using sunscreen and applying appropriately and consistently, wearing good shoes for ventilation, and seeking shade when necessary (American Heart Association, 2015). If necessary, get help when needed from trained medical staff if you encounter any health concerns. You are in control of your health, so don’t forget to drink your water daily this summer!
“Daily water intake must be balanced with losses in order to maintain total body water. Body water deficits challenge the ability to maintain homeostasis during perturbations (e.g., sickness, physical exercise, and environmental exposure) and can affect function and health (p.74, 2005).” -Institute of Medicine
Nisha Moore
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