How to properly quench your thirst in hot weather

Hot weather dramatically changes the needs of our body. To maintain temperature balance, sweating increases, which inevitably leads to dehydration. Losing even 10% of fluid can have serious consequences - from disruption of water-salt and acid-base balance to a threat to life.

In such conditions, it is extremely important to pay special attention to the correct replenishment of fluids and minerals. Experts name several drinks that can most effectively cope with this task.

The undisputed leader in the rating are various types of mineral water. They not only quench thirst, but also help restore the deficiency of salts and microelements lost through sweat. However, it is worth considering that not all mineral water is equally useful in the heat.

Medicinal table mineral waters, rich in healing minerals, can be harmful if consumed without a doctor's prescription. Therefore, to quench your thirst, it is better to choose water of the "table" or "medicinal table" categories, as indicated on the label.

In addition, experts recommend drinking plain water at room temperature. Unlike ice water, which can cause colds, such water does not overcool the body, but allows it to gradually lower the temperature.

Another category of drinks that can be useful in hot weather is fermented milk products. Kefir, yogurt, ayran, tan and other fermented milk drinks help replenish water resources. But it should be taken into account that some of them, such as ayran and tan, contain a lot of salt, which can worsen dehydration. Therefore, their consumption should be limited.

Drinks with a high caffeine content are absolutely contraindicated in hot weather. Coffee, kvass, soda and sweet juices can negatively affect the water-salt balance, causing vasoconstriction and increasing the load on the heart. In addition, caffeine has a diuretic effect, which will only worsen dehydration.

Therefore, in order to properly quench your thirst during the summer heat, the best options are still mineral water, plain water at room temperature, and some fermented milk drinks, but in moderation. This approach will help replenish the deficiency of fluid and minerals, as well as avoid additional stress on the body.

And, of course, it is important to monitor the general drinking regime, drinking enough liquid throughout the day. Only a comprehensive approach to rehydration will help maintain health during high temperatures.