Toilet Paper
(Toilet Paper is published by the UI Student Health Service and appears on the doors of various restrooms across campus--hence the name Toilet Paper.)
Hydration Station
By Amy A'Hearn, RD, LD
Health Iowa/Student Health Service Dietitian
Ahhhhh....That refreshing feeling after taking a large drink of ice cold water following time outside in the hot, humid Iowa summer weather. Whether you are outside playing a sport, walking home from class or whatever it might be that takes you outside; staying hydrated is a concern during the heat of the summer.
Why is staying hydrated important?
A person’s body is about 45 to 75 percent water weight depending on age, sex and body composition. Water can come from both food and liquids.
Water plays many roles in the body that are essential to good health including:
- Maintaining fluid in the blood for effective transport of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products
- Temperature regulation
- Lubricating joints and cushions organs
- Staying hydrated also helps your skin look its best
How much fluid should you consume? Use the color of your urine as an indicator for hydration status. If your urine is the color of apple juice, you are dehydrated. Lemonade colored urine indicates good hydration status. Also take note of how you feel. If you are chronically fatigued, headachy or lethargic, you may be dehydrated.
What should you drink?
All beverages count towards your total daily fluid consumption. Water is the best choice in most instances. Sports drinks are not necessary unless participating in a sporting activity for greater than 60 minutes continuously or in extreme heat.
Other beverages such as tea, juice, etc can fit, just be conscious that you will be consuming additional calories. Be sure to balance calories from beverages with your overall daily intake.
What are the potential risks of not drinking enough fluids?
Dehydration which may lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke! Here are some symptoms to be aware of:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Thirst
- Chills
- Clammy skin
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Decline in performance
Whether you carry a water bottle with you at all times or take a drink every time you see a water fountain, make it a priority to stay hydrated. Have a fun, safe and hydrated summer!
For help with an eating disorder, contact:
- UI Eating Disorders Service, 319-356-2263
- UI Counseling Services, 319-335-7294
- Health Iowa, 319-335-8394
- UI Student Health Service, 319-335-8394
- Women's Resource and Action Center, 319-335-1486
|
