Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about enjoying the outdoors as the weather gets warmer. While you’re working or playing outdoors in warm weather, make sure you stay hydrated. Your body cools itself by sweating, so the more you sweat, the more liquid you need.
Lona Sandon, a registered dietitian at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says most people need about six to eight glasses of water a day — more if you’re active outdoors. Keep a water bottle with you and drink regularly while you work or exercise. If you’re exercising or working vigorously in hot weather for more than 90 minutes, you may need a sports drink to replenish sodium. But avoid beverages that don’t help keep you hydrated. That includes caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee or colas; carbonated sodas; and alcoholic beverages.
Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/nutrition to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in nutrition.
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April 2008
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