When temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes even more important. Dehydration can develop quickly, causing headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, and trouble concentrating. It can also increase the risk of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, heat-related illness, and other serious health complications.
Making hydration a daily habit helps your body stay energized, focused, and ready for the day. Keep a water bottle nearby, choose water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, berries, and oranges, and limit sugary drinks and alcohol.
Most adults should aim for 8–12 cups of fluids daily. Water is the best choice, but coffee, tea, soda, and sports drinks also contribute to fluid intake. Do a simple hydration check: your urine should generally be pale yellow. Darker urine may be a sign that you need more fluids.
Diabetes and Dehydration: What You Need to Know
If you have diabetes, even mild dehydration can make blood sugar harder to manage and increase the risk of diabetes-related complications.
When you enroll in the Livongo Diabetes Management program, a health coach can provide personalized support to help you stay hydrated and manage your diabetes. If your glucose readings are high, your coach will reach out with guidance and encouragement.
Enrollment is available at no cost to you, and a free glucose monitor and test strips are delivered to your home. Learn more at here at bledsoehealthtrust.org (click Medical and Behavioral Health, then Additional Programs).