Stay Hydrated

When it comes to being out in the heat, one thing you always want to watch is your hydration level.  Did you know that if you feel thirsty then you are actually already dehydrated?  Follow these tips below to stay hydrated in the hot summer sun!


Keep a Water Bottle Handy
Here's a piece of advice that's easy and efficient: Always try to keep a reusable bottle or cup of water with you throughout the day. If you're one of those people who has trouble remembering to drink as much water as you should, having a bottle near you will help keep it at the top of your priorities list. Plus, refills are free.

Make Your Water More Interesting
Not much of a fan of plain water? Many recommend adding herbs and fresh fruit — citrus and berries are popular choices — to you water to boost the flavor intrigue. (We love this recipe for watermelon, mint, and cucumber water.) Some also claim that lemon water (made by mixing in the juice of a quarter a lemon) helps balance electrolytes and promotes the absorption of water into your cells. Or if you're a big soda drinker, opt for sparkling water or club soda instead which at least offers a similar texture — just make sure it doesn't have any added sugar or sodium.

Drink Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Juices
Believe it or not, water is not the only star of the hydration show — electrolytes, essential fatty acids, and minerals are also important when it comes to keeping you hydrated. So opt for fresh juices made from high-water content fruits and vegetables to supplement your body's needs. Think watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, strawberries, and the like. (Watching your weight? Try diluting the juice with water or club soda to help cut down on the sugar and calories.) And actually, you don't just have to drink your juice — fresh fruit popsicles are a great (not to mention tasty) hydrating alternative.


Minimize Your Caffeine and Alcohol Intake
This one's a bit of a no-brainer but worth stating nonetheless. Both alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and soda act as diuretics and can contribute to dehydration. You don't have to give up your morning cup of coffee or nightly glass of wine, just be mindful to consume these types of beverages in moderation.

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Ideas to Beat the Heat

With the last couple of days in the 80's and 90's you may be trying to think of some ways to beat the heat. In this post we will give you a few pointers to help with the heat so you can still enjoy the great weather this summer.

• Wear loose fitting light colored clothing.  Lighter colors attract less heat and with loose clothing it will allow for more air-flow to help keep you cool.
• Change your routine.  As nice as that run may be early afternoon on a Saturday, summer is not the time for it!  Adjust your activities so they are happening earlier or later in the day when the temperatures are cooler and the sun isn't beating on you as harshly.
• Stay hydrated!  Stick with water unless you are working out or working hard (then add a sports drink in there).  Stay away from anything with caffeine or alcohol as those will dehydrate you faster.
• Use fans!  Even if you have central air or an A/C unit using a fan can make it seem cooler (that way you won't have to put as much stress on your A/C units.  If you are air conditioner-less then try getting a window fan and putting it on the sunny side of your home so it pulls the hot air out and open a window in shaded areas so it pulls cooler air in.

What kind of ideas do you have to stay cool?  Leave them here, on our Facebook, or Twitter!