We are in the middle of summer and are encountering extremely hot days, which our bodies tend to require more hydration than normal.

Greene County Public Health Director Becky Wolf says when it’s hot outside, she advises to continually consume fluids to stay hydrated. She notes that once you start to feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. Wolf points out water is the best option for keeping your body hydrated and if you need to replace the salt and minerals as you sweat, sports drinks are a good option.

However, there are some drink choices Wolf recommends staying away from when you need to hydrate. She says sugary drinks, such as energy drinks, or alcohol makes bodies lose more fluid and can dehydrate you even more. Wolf describes another drink to avoid, which isn’t so obvious.

“Avoid very cold drinks because what is one thing you want to do, have a big, nice icy water right? But those can cause stomach cramps if you have really, really cold water.”  

Wolf reminds everyone to avoid the warmest parts of the day, typically in the afternoon, but staying hydrated if you are outside can help prevent suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The National Weather Service is estimating a heat index ranging from the mid to upper 90s and as high as 108 degrees through Friday.