Although summer may mean fun in the sun, it can also come with health woes if you are not cautious. “It is important for kids to stay hydrated especially in the hot summer months, because you lose fluids through sweating, breathing and going to the bathroom,” said Lisa Matsunaga, dietician. Water has a vital role. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that it helps the body to keep its temperature normal, lubricates and cushions your joints, protects your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and gets rid of wastes through urination, perspiration and bowel movements. If you do not feel thirsty, you can get fluids through soups, tomatoes, oranges, celery or melons.
You need to pay attention to the indicators of fluid loss in your child. “The easiest way to know your hydration status is to look at the color of your urine,” said Matsunaga. “If it is clear or light yellow, you are well-hydrated, but if it is lemonade color or darker, you need to drink more water,” said Matsunaga. The American Academy of Pediatrics wants parents to know the signs of dehydration. Symptoms include: dry or sticky mouth; dry, cool skin; lethargy or irritability; fatigue or dizziness in an older child; lack of urine or wet diapers for 6 to 8 hours in an infant; and lack of urine for 12 hours in an older child. Thirst is not a good early measure of dehydration; by the time a child is thirsty he is probably already dehydrated.
If your child does not like water, try adding a wedge of lime or lemon to improve the taste. Always keep drinks with you, even if you are just out for a few hours. “Make sure your child has access to water and have him drink small sips frequently when active, keeping sugary drinks like soda to a minimum,” said Matsunaga. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asks that people drink several glasses of water or other fluid after the physical activity is completed, and to drink before they even feel thirsty. Eventually, staying hydrated will become part of your child’s lifestyle.
