Common Mistakes Made Regarding Hydration

Only Drinking Water When Active or It's Hot

One common mistake individuals make is only drinking water when active or when it's hot. Individuals do need to drink more water when it's hot out or when exercising, but these aren't the only times when water is necessary. Many individuals drink soda, juice, milk, and other caffeinated beverages instead of water. Alternatively, they may not drink beverages at all. Then, when it gets hotter outside or they're engaging in exercise, they drink water. Hot weather leads the body to become dehydrated more easily. But if an individual is already dehydrated before they go outside, they're at a much higher risk of developing a heat-related illness. The same is true of exercising. Experts recommend hydrating before beginning an exercise, during the exercise itself, and afterward. Vigorous physical activity is supposed to make individuals thirsty, and it's good to drink water during it. But if individuals are not drinking water at other times of the day as well, they'll hurt their overall hydration levels. On top of this, individuals should try to drink fluids that help replenish electrolytes when they exercise.

Keep reading to reveal more common hydration mistakes now.