Being hydrated in summer is important but it is also more important for kidney function. Expert explains the connection and how to maintain proper hydration.
As the hotter season is approaching fast we spend most of the time outside working the day shift usually which makes it very important for us to focus on drinking enough water especially to keep our kidneys fit. As temperature rises in summer and is the water intake should also be increased in our daily habits. While you might think that adequate water intake is related to your kidneys, it is in fact essential for ensuring their health. These active organs are the key in eliminating as well most excess water in your body
Importance of Water for Kidney Function
Our kidney’s main function is to filter out toxins and excess fluids from the blood, maintain the balance of electrolytes, and regulate blood pressure. But for this, they need enough quantity of water to function smoothly. If we don’t consume an adequate amount of water a day it stresses our kidneys to function in their normal roles which results in multiple health issues like kidney stones and other complications.
India.com got in touch with Dr. Prakash Chandra Shetty, Urologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai. He said, “Well, imagine your kidneys as an intricate filtration system which picks the fluid substances in the process of your body. A lack of water intake leads to the accumulation of waste products in the blood, which in turn puts extra pressure on the kidneys making them work harder. Eventually, this straining of the kidney up to the stage of forming stones, the development of urinary tract infections, and other degree of chronic kidney disease.”
How Many Glasses of Water Should You Drink?
According to Dr Shetty, the answer would be – a minimum of eight, but preferably two litres. But in the scorching summer dates, when the increased sweat loss is experienced, you may have to drink more fluids to compensate for the high water loss. Consuming anything fluid be it juice, coconut water, lemon juice anything, or normal water but drinking fluids throughout the day is a must in sunny weather.
5 Tips to Stay Hydrated
- Drinking Water Regularly Throughout the Day: Maintain a habit of sipping water bit by bit all day long. Keep a water bottle or water jug with you and set a reminder on your phone if you have a habit of forgetting things easily. Installing a water intake app reminder will help you maintain a habit especially when you are outside or in the scorching sun.
- Monitoring Urine Color and Frequency: Always observe your urine colour to see your hydration status. It should be pale yellow ideally and if it is darker then you might need to increase the water intake. And if it’s too clear then you must be consuming excess water.
- Carry a reusable water bottle: The fact that you can see the water and its constant presence will be a helpful and touchable indicator. Just refill your water bottle from time to time.
- Infuse your water: If you think that plain water is not appealing enough, give it a need of a change by adding fresh slices of fruits, herbs, or vegetables. A combination of cucumber, lemon, and mint dilution will turn water into fruit fresh alternative.
- Embrace hydrating foods: When it comes to quenching your thirst , water is a perfect liquid, but many other items such as fruits and vegetables are able to assist you in keeping your hydration number high. Feast on luscious watermelon, crispy cucumbers, or grapes to replenish the lost fluids.