Having fun in the summertime heat is a priority on just about everyone’s list. Sunshine, friends, and swimming pools; what more do you need? Actually, there is one more thing that you need to complete you fun-in-the-sun: water!
Water, Water Everywhere
When you swim, your body is not only surrounded by water, it’s submerged in it. You might think that this will keep you hydrated, but it’s quite the opposite. The dry AZ air that you breathe can dehydrate you and when you play and swim, especially in the heat, you sweat. But you might not realize that you are sweating if you are in the water. You can get dehydrated without even knowing it, so you must be sure to keep plenty of water on hand and take breaks to actually drink it!
Good For The Body
Two-thirds of your body is made up of water and it makes up 95% of the brain, 82% of your blood, and 90% of your lungs. When your water level drops by a mere 2%, you can lose your ability to focus and become fatigued. There are several things that water does for your body, including:
- Aids in digestion
- Lubricates joints
- Regulates body temperature
- Removes toxins from the body
- Assists kidney function
- Transports nutrients through the body
- Cuts the risk of disease
See The Signs
Your AZ pool builders want you to be sure to keep an eye on others, especially children and older adults, at your pool party and watch for signs of dehydration, such as:
- Flushed skin
- Sudden fatigue
- Increased heart rate
- Increased breathing rate
- Raise in body temperature
- Dizziness
- Headache
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others, get to a water bottle ASAP!
Mix It Up
You might be thinking, “I know the importance of water – but it’s so boring!” If you know that water is important for life, but have a tough time getting it in, there are some creative tricks you can do to change up the flavor.
- Add a cinnamon stick
- Splash in a bit if fruit juice
- Steep in some herbs
- Add flavored ice cubes
- Add sliced citrus or cucumber
- Float a few frozen berries and let them thaw
Hydration Station
When hosting a pool party, or even just a few friends for swimming fun, your AZ pool builders say: offer plenty of water throughout the day. Jazz it up and pass it around, or set up a cooler on a table where people can help themselves. Don’t forget to nosh on some of the most hydrating foods out there. Put out a tray and let guests help themselves to:
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
- Celery
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
- Star fruit
- Cantaloupe
- Baby Carrots
Have fun in the sun in your beautiful pool from No Limit, but do it safely. Stay hydrated and have a blast; fall will be here before you know it!
