How To Hydrate - As An Adult
Whether you're pounding the pavement, hitting the gym, or just going about your day, staying hydrated is vital—especially as we get older. While hydration is important for everyone, older adults face unique challenges that make it harder to maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Let’s dive into why this matters and how to stay on top of your hydration game.
Why Hydration Becomes Harder with Age - As we age, our total body water decreases, and we may not feel thirsty as often, making it easier to become dehydrated without even realizing it. In fact, up to 28% of older adults may be affected by dehydration at any given time. Factors such as reduced muscle mass, certain medications, and medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can all play a role in speeding up water loss.
For older adults, dehydration can lead to serious issues like heart strain, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of falls due to dizziness or weakness.
Hydration Isn’t Just About Water - Many people make the mistake of thinking that simply drinking more water is the solution, but that’s only half the story. Staying hydrated also means getting enough electrolytes, especially sodium, which helps your body retain water and maintain healthy fluid levels. Without adequate sodium, drinking plain water can actually make you feel worse.
Tips for Staying Hydrated as You Age - Here are some simple but effective strategies for maintaining optimal hydration:
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Drink electrolytes throughout the day: Whether you're on a run or just relaxing at home, sipping on electrolyte-rich drinks is a great way to ensure you're staying properly hydrated.
- LMNT Electrolyte Mix/Cans: This offers an easy and effective solution. With a balanced formula of sodium, potassium, and magnesium, LMNT helps maintain hydration and supports overall health. By adding it to your water throughout the day, you can ensure that your body gets the electrolytes it needs to stay hydrated and function optimally.
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Keep fluids close by: If you or a loved one find it difficult to stay on top of hydration, keeping a water bottle handy can be a simple but powerful reminder.
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Monitor signs of dehydration: Symptoms like fatigue, dry mouth, headaches, and muscle cramps could indicate that you need more fluids—and not just water, but electrolytes too.
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Consult a professional: For older adults or anyone with health conditions, working with a healthcare provider to set daily hydration goals can help ensure you’re drinking the right amount for your body’s needs.
Staying hydrated is essential to feeling your best and preventing dehydration-related risks. For runners, this can improve performance, and for older adults, it can support long-term health and well-being.
Stay active and hydrated, The Team at Manhattan Running Company
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