GOT WATER? Today, I began to read an article in the latest Harvard Medical School Health Letter that offered some surprising information: the old recommendation of drinking 8 cups of water a day is not sufficient. Instead, we should aim for about 11 cups per day for women and 15 cups per day for men. My initial reaction was that this is significantly more than I currently consume. However, after reading the entire article, I realized I might not be falling as short as I thought. Here are excerpts from the July 1, 2024 post by Heidi Godman, Executive Editor,...
KEEP YOUR COOL THIS SUMMER Now that summer’s here you’re probably adjusting your outdoor activities. I sure am. For instance, on the days I jog I’m getting up earlier so I can hit the trail before the sun rises much above the horizon. I’m wearing the least amount of clothing, just shorts, a T-shirt (to wipe my brow with) and running shoes. Plus a hat of course to cover my balding head and keep my face shaded. I wear sunscreen year around but apply it extra thick in summer. Stay Hydrated Whether you run, walk, bike or go out and...
KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED We’re heading towards summer and as it gets hotter and we perspire more we especially risk becoming dehydrated. But drinking sufficient fluids is crucial because they carry nutrients to your cells, flush bacteria from your bladder and prevent constipation. I’ve read that older folks don’t sense thirst as much as they did when they were younger. And if you’re on a medication that causes fluid loss, such as a diuretic, it can be especially critical. Here are tips from the September 2018 Mayo Clinic article Want to stay hydrated? Drink, before you’re thirsty: Thirst isn’t a helpful...
