By: Karen Manschot, MS, RDN, LDN
Guest Post Writer
Summer continues to move right along – it is hard to believe that it is already August! Days are longer, the sun is more intense, and it seems that the heat and humidity are here to stay. School will be out for a few more weeks and it is prime time to enjoy the remaining longer, sunnier days. Also, for mnay, sports will be gearing back up soon for and children will be playing in the heat of the sun.
With increased time in the sun, comes an increased risk for dehydration. For parents with children who are involved in sports or are especially physically active, it can feel daunting to determine what, and when, your child should drink fluids. Choosing to adopt an “all fluids fit” approach to hydration can help both you and your active child feel more at ease about hydrating this summer.
H20
A Google search of “hydration tips for kids” yields a staggering 14 million results. Many of the articles from this search promote the consumption of water as a primary means of hydration. Water consumption is certainly important for kids and adults alike. Our bodies are approximately 60% water and our muscles are approximately 75% water. Water serves to lubricate our joints and tissues, it helps regulate our body temperature, it transports nutrients and oxygen to and from our cells, and it transports wastes out of our body.
We consume water in its liquid form, of course, and it’s the main ingredient in all beverages. So, children consume water no matter the beverage they are drinking. It is also present in varying amounts in the foods that we eat. More on that in a future post.
