The Pura Winter Hydration Guide
We often think of dehydration as a summer problem. But did you know that the winter season can put you at even greater risk? This is because cold weather dulls our thirst sensations, dry air causes more fluid loss and heavy clothing can mask sweating, among other factors. So, in order to help you stay healthy and well all season long, let’s talk about why hydration in cold weather matters just as much this time of year, and how to avoid winter dehydration.
Dry air
As the temps drop, often the humidity goes with it. That’s because cold air holds less moisture than warm air. This effect is often compounded by long hours spent indoors with warm, heated air with low relative humidity. That’s why you probably notice flaky skin, chapped lips, and scratchy throats more often this time of year. It also means you'll need to drink plenty of water for proper hydration in cold weather.
Heavy clothing
The chillier it gets outside, the more often we tend to layer up to stay warm. That usually means wearing heavier clothing and more layers to stay comfortable and feel cozy. But we often do this even when we don’t need it, like wearing a big cozy sweater indoors by the fireplace, or keeping jackets on inside heated shops. As a result, trapped heat can lead to overheating and sweating, and when you don’t feel as hot, it can mean you’re losing water without noticing it as much.
Heat conservation
In addition to reducing your thirst, these natural processes to conserve heat can also make you lose more fluids. When your blood vessels constrict in response to the cold, it raises blood pressure, giving the kidneys more blood to process. Called cold diuresis, this natural response can make you take more trips to the bathroom. It also means, if you notice more frequency than usual, you might need to drink more water to avoid dehydration in winter.
Reduced thirst
Ever wondered why you seem to feel less thirsty in cold weather? Your thirst response lessens in cold, winter weather, even when your body is dehydrated. That’s because cold diuresis can trick your body into thinking it has a higher volume of fluids, suppressing the thirst signal. As a result, it’s easier to forget to drink water.
Silent dehydration
These and other factors can lead to something called “silent dehydration," where your body is not getting enough water without necessarily showing clear signs or symptoms of winter dehydration. To prevent this, you’ll need to drink plenty of fluids, likely more than usual.
Winter hydration tips
Wondering how to stay hydrated in the winter? Here’s what we recommend:
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Track your water intake to be sure you’re getting as much water as your doctor recommends for your size.
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Incorporate electrolytes into your routine to be sure your body is properly absorbing the water you drink.
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Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate your body further.
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Drink herbal teas or fruit infusions to enjoy hydrating beverages that taste great throughout your day.
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Carry a plastic-free water bottle with you at home and on the go to remind you to stay hydrated. We recommend our Big Mouth® Sports Bottles for a free-flowing way to sip!
At Pura Stainless, our mission is to help health and environmentally conscious families like yours stay hydrated in the safest, most planet-friendly way possible. That is why we innovated the world’s first and only line of 100% plastic-free water bottles and baby bottles for all ages. Head to our website to learn more about our eco-friendly products and start shopping for a better way to hydrate today!
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