The scorching summers are time to be wary of dehydration and can leave you to feel thirsty and tired. Your body needs water for overall good health and depends on water to survive. Water maintains your internal body temperature, removes waste products, and keeps joints lubricated. Water makes things work from the skin to organs, and even the slightest drop in hydration can have an impact.
The body loses water through sweating and urination naturally. So, when the body loses more water than you drink or take in, that’s when dehydration occurs.
According to Ayurveda, people with pre-dominant Vata dosha have a tendency to dehydration, Pitta people have a tendency to sweat and metabolize quickly; while Kapha people tend to retain water and metabolize slowly.
Follow these steps to prevent dehydration: -
● Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink. You can add a lemon or lime slice to your drink.
● Up your electrolytes that are a combination of minerals required for optimal functioning. Ex- Sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium.
● Eat fresh fruits and vegetables with high amounts of water like watermelon, musk melon, pomegranate, berries, tomatoes, and lettuce.
● Avoid drinks containing caffeine like coffee, teas, soft drinks and alcohol. Instead, one can opt for fruit juices or smoothies.
● Drink Coconut water. It not only quenches your thirst but also has several other benefits. It reduces Vata & Pitta doshas.
● Buttermilk increases the fluid content in the body, reduces Kapha & Vata Dosha.
● A refreshing drink with cucumber & lemon juice will help replace lost electrolytes.
● Milk and Cardamom are both colds in potency, so drink cold milk with cardamom in it.
● Wear lighter shades, loose, cotton clothing and also a hat.
● Try to stay off the sun during the hottest time of the day, i.e. between 11 am to 2 pm.
● Avoid spicy foods as it contributes to the loss of body fluids by increasing the internal body temperature.
● Do not exert yourself much; avoid excessive exertion. Practice yoga.
References: https://johnstonhealth.org/2015/07/preventing-dehydration/
