Did you know that you are MORE at risk from dehydration in 
the winter vs the Summer?
I KNOW! Weird, but it’s absolutely true.
There are several factors that come into play during the colder months that are not a factor (or not as much of a factor) when the weather is warm.
- More Clothing: When you wear more clothing, you’re actually adding more weight. This means that your body has to work harder during those months even when you are doing everyday tasks. All because you have on extra layers of thick clothing. In fact, your body may be working 10% – 40% harder. And let’s not mention the fact that you are trying to conserve body heat, which means you have and increased chance of sweating under all those clothes.
- Sweat Evaporates Quicker: Did you know that sweat evaporates more quickly in cold than it does in the warmer weather? I didn’t know that either, but there are several research studies that have proven it.
- Lose More Water from Breathing: When the weather is colder, you lose more water through breathing than you would when it’s warmer. I speculate that it’s because the water holds heat and is using moister to help your body keep your nose and lungs from getting cold.
- Decreased Thirst: Your body’s signal to drink water can decrease up to 40% more in the cold weather. This means that if/when your body does in fact NEED more water, you won’t always get that thirst signal to drink. This means that you won’t always be reminded to drink water.
There are probably other factors at play, but the main point is made.
We NEED to make sure that we are getting adequate water in, even when it’s colder outside… ESPECIALLY when it’s colder outside!
Symptoms of Dehydration
If we become dehydrated, we can start to see / feel symptoms like
- dark colored urine
- dry skin
- dizziness
- dry lips
- fatigue
- headaches
- and more.
How do You Combat This?
This can be combated by drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water each day. This means that if you weigh 200 lbs, you should drink at least 100 ounces of water, that’s at least 12.5 cups (or 6-7 bottles).
If you’re REALLY cold, you can drink the water hot. Throw in a slice of lemon or lime for a little Razzle Dazzle! It’s also good to help your immune system stay strong!
Do yourself a favor this winter.
Make an extra effort to stay hydrated this winter. Even if you can’t get the full amount in, make sure that you start your morning by drinking a large glass of water before you get out of bed, and a large glass of water during the day. This may not be enough, but it’s better than nothing (which many of us tend to do in winter time).
Stay hydrated, My Friend!
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