Hydration is important to health! It’s the most important thing for your body and mind. While there isn’t much science supporting the “8 glasses a day” adage, we know water is essential to our well-being. The human body is 50% to 75% water.

Dehydration can happen quickly while enjoying time in your hot tub. These can happen even quicker during hot weather. That can impact your body as well as your mind and make you feel tired, stressed or weak.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dehydration can include thirst, as well as aches and pains. Other symptoms of mild dehydration include light-headedness, headache or fatigue. Mild dehydration can progress to moderate or even severe dehydration, which can cause rapid heartbeat, fever, listlessness and fainting.

Hot tub users can become dehydrated much more easily. It’s incredibly important to make sure you’re well hydrated before entering your hot tub. Simple steps can help you monitor your fluid intake and ensure proper hydration while you enjoy your spa.

Tips

These below tips will help you stay hydrated and comfortable in your hot tub or spa:

  1. Buy a reusable water bottle and take it everywhere! Having water at the ready removes roadblocks to staying hydrated. It’s also a good visual reminder to take a sip. If you choose a reusable water bottle, make sure you clean it properly.
  2. Eat your veggies! And your fruits. While water is the easiest way to keep hydrated, fruits and vegetables are a great source of H20, as well. Most fruits and veggies are high water content foods that contribute to your body’s overall hydration.
  3. Monitor the colour of your urine. Pale urine indicates that you’re meeting your body’s fluid needs. Dark, yellow urine means you need to drink more water.
  4. Infuse your water! Slice a few lemons, strawberries or cucumbers and toss them into your reusable water bottle. The fruits will enhance the flavour and appearance of your water and make every sip taste great. Add an antioxidant boost of rosemary or peppermint with your favourite fruits. Get creative – the possibilities are endless!
  5. Drink a warm cup of herbal tea before bed every night. The tea will relax you, provide health benefits and boost your daily hydration totals.

Remember, don’t set the temperature too high in your hot tub. This can further put you at risk for dehydration. The most important part of this is just to be aware of your current situation.