Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes inthrowing off its balance and potentially, leading to serious health complications if left untreated.
Summer is here, and with the sun blazing down, even a short step outside can leave you sweating, drained, and reaching for water.
But what does “dehydration” truly mean?
Many people think dehydration just means feeling thirsty, but it's much more than that. It occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes inthrowing off its balance and potentially, leading to serious health complications if left untreated.
With thetemperatures rising across the country, dehydration cases will also subsequentlyincrease, especially among children and the elderly. Dr. Karra Ramesh Reddy, MD Pediatrics and advisor with Cipla Health, shares essential tips to help you stay hydrated this summer. From spotting early warning signs to choosing the best ways to rehydrate, his expert advice is all about keeping your health in check during the hottest months.
Top 3 Warning Signs of Dehydration
1. Parched throat and constant thirst? Your body’s asking to be rehydrated!
When the body loses more fluids than it takes in, the first sign is often an unquenchable thirst and a dry mouth. This is a signal that your body needs immediate hydration.
2. Dark Urine and sudden dizziness? It could be dehydration!
When dehydrated, your kidneys conserve water, leading to darker, more concentrated urine. Severe fluid loss can also cause a drop in blood pressure, making you feel dizzy or faint. Rehydrating quickly can help restore balance and keep you feeling steady.
3. Feeling drained or a little foggy? Loss of electrolytes could be the reason!
Lack of hydration can lead to sluggishness and difficulty concentrating. When the body doesn’t have enough fluids, it struggles to regulate temperature and transport essential nutrients, leading to fatigue and mental fogginess.
Choosing the Right Rehydration Solution: Here’s what you should look for
While drinking enough water daily is essential, sometimes plain water isn’t enough cos there is loss of water as well as electrolytes in dehydration. At the first signs of dehydration, reaching for the right rehydration drink can make all the difference. A WHO-approved Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is one of the most effective ways to restore lost fluids and electrolytes. This specially formulated mix of electrolytes, sugar, and water helps rehydrate the body quickly and effectively. However, not all ORS options are the same, choosing the right one is key.
Here’s how to identify a genuine ORS that follows WHO guidelines:
· Check for the stamp "based on WHO formula" on the packaging.
· Avoid products with a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mark, as authentic ORS is categorized as a controlled substance, not a food product.It cannot be manufactured at any site – it needs to adhere to guidelines laid down by the Central Drugs Standard Control(CDSCO).
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
- Steer clear of drinks labelled as "electrolyte drinks" or "energy drinks" or drinks with very high sugar, these are not meant for treating dehydration.
Right Solution, Small Sips, Big Impact
The good news is that dehydration can be easily prevented with the right steps. Make it a habit to sip fluids throughout the day and if you're looking for something with a little more taste, flavoured WHO-approved ORS available in the market is your best bet to fight dehydration effectively. Remember, not all electrolyte drinks are ORS, understanding the difference can go a long way in protecting your health. Stay informed, choose the right hydration solution, and enjoy a cool, refreshed summer!!
