Hydration: More than H2O

As the summer begins, it is a good time to remember how important it is to have adequate fluid intake. For older adults, dehydration can set in quite quickly and the consequences can be severe up to and including hospitalization or death.

Symptoms of dehydration can include any of the following: dark urine, headaches, sudden signs of confusion or weakness, crying but little or no evidence of tears, bloated stomach, rapid but weak pulse, wrinkling of skin on the forehead, loss of balance, cramping and thick salvia.

One major challenge in maintaining proper levels of hydration is to have an adequate intake of water. While our bodies require water for health and survival, many people dislike drinking water.

Adding food with a  high water content to the diet is one way to introduce more water, color, taste and variety into anyone’s daily diet.

Here are some examples of high water content foods that are especially tasty in the summer months. Served as a side dish, salad or snack, these foods can add great variety, color and taste and best of all, increase hydration.

Watermelon, pineapple, grapes

Tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, celery

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries

Jello, Italian ices, popsicles

Ginger ale with a splash of cranberry juice

Happy Summer and Happy Hydration!