The Sugar Trap: Stay Away from These Drinks
Pure fruit juices and classic soft drinks are the biggest culprits when it comes to effective hydration in the heat. The high fructose content in juices and the refined sugar in soft drinks draw water from your body cells. This leads to not only needing to go to the toilet more quickly but also to an increased feeling of thirst instead of it disappearing. It's a vicious cycle: you drink because you're thirsty, but the drink makes you even thirstier.
Your Summer Savior: These Thirst Quenchers Are True Heroes
The good news is: the best thirst quencher is also the cheapest and healthiest – tap water! Here, tap water is of excellent quality and is a top alternative to expensive mineral water. If plain water is too boring for you, you can easily jazz it up.
Fruit spritzers are a great alternative to pure juice, but pay attention to the mixing ratio: one part juice to three to four parts water is ideal to drastically reduce the sugar content. Unsweetened herbal and fruit teas are also a fantastic choice. Whether warm or cooled, they offer a variety of flavors without burdening the body with sugar. A few leaves of fresh mint or lemon balm in the water also provide a great aroma.
The Optimal Temperature: Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
It may be surprising, but the temperature of your drink also plays a role. Very hot drinks stimulate sweat production and can additionally burden the body. Ice-cold drinks are tempting, but they have the opposite effect of what you want: the body has to expend energy to bring the cold drink to body temperature. Paradoxically, this heats it up and you sweat even more. The best choice is lukewarm or slightly cooled drinks. A small pinch of salt in your water can also help compensate for the salt loss caused by sweating.
Fluid by the Spoonful: Eat Yourself Hydrated!
Don't forget that you also take in fluids through food. Water-rich foods like juicy melons, crunchy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, or sweet strawberries are not only delicious but also support your fluid balance. A creative tip: puree or freeze fruits as ice cubes and add them to your water for natural sweetness and extra refreshment. This way, you stay cool and hydrated in any heat!
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