During the summer months, temperatures spike and provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and outdoor fun. But, with increased temperatures comes an increased risk of dehydration. When you get dehydrated the body loses more water than it takes in, resulting in problems with the normal body processes.

About 60 percent of your body is water. Maintaining proper water composition is essential for your body to properly function. You naturally lose water throughout the day while sweating and using the bathroom. Physical activity and heat can prompt you to sweat more, resulting in a higher level of fluid loss. Illness, vomiting, and diarrhea can also lead to excessive fluid loss and dehydration. When you are dehydrated you can experience symptoms ranging from headaches and cramps to kidney failure and heart problems.

First off if you’re thirsty and have a dry mouth, you are already dehydrated. It’s important to be proactive about dehydration. You should be drinking plenty of fluids before activities and exposure to heat. You want to make sure you are drinking enough water plus some type of electrolyte supplement to replenish lost nutrients. Pedialyte, Gatorade, and Liquid IV are all great options for rehydration. It’s extremely important that you stay hydrated for your body to function to its full potential.