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Did you know that 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated? It’s true. During the hot and humid summer months, it’s even more important to stay hydrated in order to make up for the lost fluids due to sweating and being generally more hot than normal. There are several ways you can keep your body healthy and hydrated, besides just drinking water.
It’s easy for patients to forget to get in the recommended eight glasses of water per day, so in honor of National Hydration Day, we would like to share some easy ways medical marijuana patients can stay hydrated this summer!
1. Start Your Day With Oats
Did you know you can eat oatmeal as a way to stay hydrated? Cooked oats expand and absorb all of the liquid they are being paired with. Whether you opt for a hot bowl of oatmeal to start your day or prepare some overnight oats for a cooler treat in the morning, this breakfast will not only keep you full, but it will also keep you hydrated!
2. Coconut Water
If you're looking spice up the taste from just ordinary water, give coconut water a try! It contains several important electrolytes including sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. Coconut water has more potassium and less sodium and carbohydrates than sports drinks, making it a better alternative.
3. Try Drinking Milk
Did you know that milk is known to be more hydrating than water? A recent study revealed that skim milk is more hydrating than water due to its protein, lactose, and fat which slows the emptying of the stomach and helps extends the duration of hydration.
4. Tea
A cup of tea can be enjoyed either hot or cold and can contribute to your daily fluid needs. Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger can provide additional benefits as they can include antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. However, teas can contain caffeine, which can be dehydrating so it is best to find teas that are decaffeinated.
5. Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables
About 20% of our daily water intake is obtained from food. Fruits and vegetables are especially high in water content and are a great way to contribute to adding to your daily fluids. Veggies such as cucumbers, lettuce, radishes, and celery are made up of 95-96% water. While fruits like strawberries and watermelon are 92% water.
6. Smoothies
Creating your own smoothies is a great way to pack hydrating fruits and vegetables into one tasty beverage! Depending on your preferences, liquids such as coconut water or milk can also be added to a smoothie for a greater effect. To get even more creative, a drop of your favorite tincture can be combined with the mixture to create a refreshing smoothie while reaping the medicinal benefits of medical marijuana.