As the weather cools down and you break out your favorite parka, staying hydrated isn't always a priority. But just because sweaty, hot weather is behind you, it's not the time to skimp on your water intake. Chilly temps and dry winter air can quickly dehydrate you. Staying hydrated in the winter is also crucial for your health as cold and flu season peaks.
Let's explore how to prioritize hydration in the winter.
ARE YOU MORE DEHYDRATED IN THE WINTER?
So why is the cold so dehydrating? While you might sweat less in cold climates, winter has a few sneaky of depleting your fluids. Dry indoor and outdoor air pulls moisture from your skin and airways, decreasing your water levels and hydrating your body. Cranking up the heat in your home or car dries the air even more.
But while the cold actively dehydrates the body, you may not notice your need for more water. Cold temperatures also dull thirst cues that are more noticeable in the warmer months.
Some signs you may be dehydrated in cold weather include:
- Dry mouth and lips
- Dry skin
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Peeing less frequently
THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING HYDRATED IN COLD WEATHER
Staying hydrated through all seasons is important, but drinking in cold weather can help you stay healthy and recover from illnesses.
Cold weather also brings the dreaded cold and flu season. When battling the flu, dehydration is even more likely due to diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating. Cold symptoms also dehydrate you. A runny nose and congestion make you lose essential fluids.
6 HELPFUL TIPS FOR STAYING HYDRATED IN THE WINTER
Need help prioritizing hydration in the cold weather? Here are some of the best ways to stay hydrated all winter.
1. GRAB A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
Whether you're knee-deep in snow or on the couch trying to kick a cold, always keep a large water bottle with you. You can easily sip and refill large tumblers or water bottles to hydrate all day.
2. SIP OFTEN
Chugging water and warm beverages can be tempting for instant warmth and hydration. Still, it's better to focus on hydrating throughout the day. Frequently take sips throughout the day and on winter hikes to stay hydrated. Taking small, frequent sips may help you keep down fluids if you are sick and nauseous.
3. CHOOSE WARM BEVERAGES OVER COLD
Both cold and warm water help hydrate your body in the winter! But, while cold water can be refreshing on a sore throat, it won't add any warmth you may crave in winter. It's also easier for your body to absorb warm water, and heat can be soothing if you're battling a cold or flu.
For more flavor, sip warm herbal tea or water with lemon and honey. Coffee and caffeinated tea can also hydrate you, but the caffeine can have a diuretic effect that can be slightly dehydrating.
4. ADD ELECTROLYTES
You also lose electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium when dehydrated. You need these minerals for muscle function and hydration year-round, but they're especially important if you're sick. Add electrolyte powders to water or drink broth to boost your electrolytes in the winter.
5. REFUEL WITH SOUPS AND BROTH
Sipping on soups and broth is great for hydration and warmth, especially if you're sick. Broth can also provide much-needed electrolytes and essential nutrients to fuel recovery from a cold or flu. If you're sick, opt for clear broths and soups. The warmth of these nutrient-rich liquids can also help soothe a sore throat or congestion.
6. TRACK YOUR HYDRATION GOALS
Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. Up your water intake from there if you're in a hot home, breaking a sweat on the trails, or sick. If you have trouble remembering to drink water in the cold, try to track your progress with a water-tracking app. Or, set reminders to sip throughout the day.
HOW TO STAY HYDRATED THROUGHOUT THE DAY WITH TRU FLASK
Tru Flask understands the importance of staying hydrated, especially during dry winter months. We offer a wide range of durable and sustainable stainless steel tumblers to keep you hydrated in the cold.
Both leakproof and insulated, our tumblers help you enjoy your favorite hydrating beverages ice-cold or piping hot for hours. While you explore winter wonderlands or are stuck at home with a cold, Tru Flask will keep you hydrated.