Feeling thirsty is an early warning sign of dehydration, so drink the right type and amount of fluids throughout the day. Dehydration is a serious condition that can cause many symptoms and health problems if not managed properly. While all beverages can relieve thirst immediately, certain drinks can satisfy your thirst for longer periods of time.
Thirst
Thirst is a signal from your body that it needs more fluid to replace what is normally lost through perspiration, respiration and elimination. Several situations can trigger more than normal or excessive thirst such as hot and spicy foods; diabetes; excessive sweating; bleeding or a loss of fluid due to vomiting and diarrhea, says MedlinePlus. In addition, certain medications can cause dry mouth or thirst as a side effect. A constant feeling of being thirsty can also be due to an underlying heart condition or liver and kidney disease. If you are constantly very thirsty, see your doctor to ensure you don't have an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.
Water
Keeping the right balance of water in the body is essential in order for the body to function correctly and maintain a normal body temperature. While a general goal is to get about six to eight 8 oz glasses every day. You may need more water if these conditions are present and you are feeling thirsty. For normal everyday activity and if you are exercising for an hour or less, plain water is best when it comes to quenching your thirst, reports Cleveland Clinic. Drink enough water throughout the day so that thirst does not occur and your urine is clear or light yellow.
Sports Drinks
Choose sports or energy drinks if you plan to be out in hot humid weather, dealing with a prolonged illness that can cause dehydration or working out at a moderate to intense level for longer than one hour, notes the American Dietetic Association. These conditions may cause your body to not only lose water; but electrolytes as well. As your level of electrolytes drops, your thirst can become stronger. There are many sports drinks on the market that contain electrolytes, but they can also be high in sugar, calories and caffeine. If you decide to use sports drinks, read the nutrition label to find the best choice.
Milk
Sports drinks may help to manage your thirst, however they contain very little nutritional value. If you are in a situation where you need more than just water, you may want to consider drinking low fat milk to control your thirst. Low fat milk contains many vitamins and minerals the body needs and it can also replace lost electrolytes, reports MayoClinic.com. In addition, low fat milk provides the body with healthy carbohydrates and protein, both of which can help to repair your muscles and refuel your body after working out.
Drinks to Avoid
While they may immediately quench your thirst, avoid sodas and drinks with sugar, caffeine and alcohol. The above beverages can increase urination and can make dehydration and thirst worse in the long run.
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