It was warmer than usual this summer. I was reminded of this when a New York friend ended up in the Emergency Room twice in one week. About that same time my cousin called her doctor complaining of dizziness. They both admitted to seldom drinking water and both were suffering from symptoms of dehydration. How could something so simple become such a serious health care concern?
Athletes have always been conscious of their need to replenish fluids. You see sports minded people walking around with water bottles all of the time. Water bottles are almost a fashion statement these days, and can be found in every color, size and material imaginable. You can even match your outfit, and nobody stares at you if have one hooked to your walker. Seniors were born before drinking water became fashionable, and many live on the edge of dehydration. They just don’t seem to get it!
Even mild dehydration can make you feel tired. It also contributes to constipation which is a fairly common problem for older people. I knew all that, but I don’t think I was aware that over time dehydration might also raise the risk for a heart attack. Sari Harrar in the book “Long Life Prescription” mentioned that dehydration may make blood slightly thicker, and more likely to clot. This also means that if you are taking a diuretic (and many seniors are) that you need to drink water to maintain your fluid balance.
Hydrating your body will give you more energy and lower the incidences of confusion and dizziness. Developing a water drinking habit is and easy and it is good for you. Make yourself drink 5-6 glasses of water, herbal tea, and juice every day. The quickest way to monitor how you are doing is by checking your urine every time you go to the bathroom. It should be pale and have almost no odor.
Experts tell us to start each day by drinking a glass of water, although this doesn’t work for everyone. If plain water triggers your gag reflex first thing in the morning you can ease into it a little slower (perhaps that cup of tea will be a more palatable). Drinking fluids before, during and after exercising is probably the easiest way to remember because you are feeling hot and sweaty. It is also a good idea to pour a glass of water to have with meals. There is also no reason why you can’t treat yourself to a fruit Popsicle once or twice a day. Make drinking water a habit. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty because your sense of thirst grows fainter after age 60.
Be alert to signs of mild dehydration (thirst, fatigue, headache, dry mouth, muscle weakness, dizziness or light headedness). If you notice any of these symptoms start drinking water immediately.
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