Beat the heat with good old-fashioned H₂0

It may be trendy to carry bottled water — tap or otherwise — but it’s just plain smart when the thermostat’s inching toward 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade.

Lona Sandon, assistant professor of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says water is the best option for hydration, but opt for a sports drink if you are exercising or working in the heat for more than 90 minutes. Signs of dehydration include weakness, exhaustion and delirium.

“Just be sure to steer clear of alcohol and caffeinated drinks like tea and sodas. They may add to your fluid intake but may leave you feeling light headed and jittery, making it difficult to tell if you are well hydrated,” says Ms. Sandon, a registered dietitian.

Visit www.utsouthwestern.org/nutrition to learn more about clinical services in nutrition at UT Southwestern.

Media Contact: Kristen Holland Shear