Red-hot temperatures, walks and games under the hot sun, siesta on the beach… It’s moments like these when thirst overwhelms us, our mouths dry up and we urgently look for some coolness.
- 8 glasses of water a day is not the norm: Science has long since demolished it! As one can easily understand, not all people need the same amount of water, since the needs of each organism vary according to, for example, gender, age, physical activity and environmental conditions. In general, men need more water than women, and both groups need more water than children, but all need more fluids when the ambient temperature is high (such as on hot summer days) or when they engage in some physical activity, to replace losses due to sweating.
- Water is not the only source of hydration. The belief that only water can “quench” your body effectively has no scientific basis! A large part of our needs is covered by the water already contained in non-alcoholic drinks and beverages, such as juices, milk, coffee, tea and soft drinks (with a preference for light for those watching their weight), but and food, such as fruits and vegetables. Do not forget that in its recent report, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) considers that a daily intake of 2 liters of water for women and 2.5 liters of water for men, from all the sources mentioned above, is sufficient to cover the their needs (under “normal” environmental and physical activity conditions).
- Caffeinated beverages can contribute to daily hydration: Contrary to popular belief, caffeinated beverages help meet our water needs. Although it has a slight diuretic effect, this is temporary, and thus not enough to disturb the body’s water balance. According to the official position of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Science, all non-alcoholic beverages, including those with caffeine, contribute to our daily hydration.
This summer, and every summer, along with the necessary towel and the irreplaceable sunscreen, let’s not forget our most important “companion” at the beach: Enough water but also various refreshing and enjoyable drinks for all hours!
