Stay Hydrated!!!

Parents are always reminding their children to drink water, especially in the hot summer months. But what about you busy parents? Are you getting enough to drink?

I had a friend who discussed how stressful her life became when she got sick. Her husband had to stay home from both work and school to watch their toddler. Eventually they realized that she was dehydrated. As she took care of herself by getting the fluids she needed, she got better and was able to have the energy she needed to keep up with her little one. Their life became a little less stressful.

“Water makes up approximately 60 to 70 percent of the human body by weight, so [it makes sense that] all of us need to stay hydrated to keep our bodies running smoothly."  When you have a dry mouth, muscle weakness or cramping, a headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, tiredness, or sunken eyes, you could be dehydrated.  It’s no fun to feel this way and makes it really hard to be the incredible parent you are capable of being. “You have to take care of you so you can take care of them."

So, how do you remember to take a drink in the midst of your crazy, busy schedule? Try these tips:

• Find a glass that is just your water glass
• Eat hydrating foods
• Keep a water bottle with you during work hours or when you are away from home for long periods of time
• Drink before you get thirsty
• Set up reminders (Here’s a cute craft you can do and keep on your fridge to help remind you to stay hydrated!)
  

Increasing your fluid intake by just a little bit could make your day flow just a little easier. Good luck!