Staying healthy requires adequate hydration. But, how do we know if we’re getting enough fluids? And how do we know which hydration method is best–plain water, sports drinks, or IV therapy?
Getting and staying hydrated doesn’t have to be a struggle. That’s why Vitality IV, powered by the BioMed Center of New England, is here to tell you the clear truth about hydration. Additionally, we’ll show you how increasing your intake of fluids improves your overall health.
However, if you’re ready to schedule your initial consultation, then contact our team at 401-443-4007 or online here. We’re more than ready to enhance your hydration in our calm and inviting atmosphere!
Pay Attention to the Color of Your Urine
Typically, thirst is an indication that we are dehydrated. However, not everyone feels or acknowledges thirst the same way. So, paying attention to the color of our urine is a great way to gauge our bodys’ hydration level.
According to the U.S. Army Public Health Command, this simple urine color test is a good indicator of hydration. Someone who is adequately hydrated will have pale yellow-colored urine. However, someone who is dehydrated will have dark yellow-colored urine.
Nevertheless, extremely dark urine may indicate blood in the urine or kidney issues. So, if you’re noticing excessively dark pee, then contact our BioMed team immediately.
8 Glasses of Water a Day May Not be Enough
For some people, the recommended eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day is not enough. This is because several factors influence hydration, such as:
- Exercise: We lose a lot of fluid through sweat. So, replenishing the fluids we lose during exercise must be replaced. Be sure to drink water before, during, and after exercise!
- Health issues: Some health conditions (like bladder infections) require extra hydration. Additionally, diarrhea and vomiting require increased hydration to counteract the loss of fluids.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Milk production requires a lot of water. So, mothers and mothers-to-be should be getting at least 16 cups of water a day for optimal hydration.
- Environment: Heat, humidity, and altitude all play a major role in dehydration. Therefore, it’s important to increase hydration during outdoor activities.
You Don’t Need to Get All Your Fluids from Water Alone
While it’s true that pure water is a great way to increase our hydration, it’s not the only option. For example, a sports drink after exercise is a great way to get quick energy and replenish our electrolytes. Additionally, approximately 20% of our daily water intake comes from food.
However, intravenous hydration (such as IV therapy) is one of the most efficient ways to get proper hydration quickly. So, whether you’re dehydrated from a hangover or a marathon, our IV infusions will nourish you with pure water and essential nutrients.
COVID-19 and Respiratory Illnesses Will Cause Dehydration
COVID-19 has a long list of symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. All three of those symptoms lead to a significant loss of fluids. So, staying on top of hydration is more important than ever when we are sick.
However, drinking fluids when we are sick is often difficult (or impossible!). Therefore, our Vitality IV team recommends IV infusions for patients who are having difficulty drinking water or keeping it down.
A Noticeable Spike in Thirst May Indicate a Health Issue
Certain medications (like antihistamines) may have a dehydrating effect on the body. But, if you’re noticing increased thirst with no major lifestyle changes, then it could be something serious.
One of the symptoms of diabetes mellitus is a noticeable increase in thirst. So, if you’re noticing excessive thirst, contact our BioMed team immediately. We’ll help you pinpoint and treat the issue quickly.
Don’t have diabetes but you’re still suffering from dry mouth? Contact our Well Rooted Dentistry team. We’ll assess your oral and overall health before exploring your hydration options.
IV Hydration in New England
Hydration is key to proper organ function and overall health. That’s why Vitality IV aims to enhance your hydration through nourishing IV therapy.
Schedule your initial consultation today to see why we are Providence, Rhode Island’s, premier location for intravenous solutions. Call 401-443-4007 or reach us online here to get started!
