06/17/2026
Wednesday Wellness Word
HYDRATION is our word today! Most of us have heard to drink 8-8oz glasses a day and some sources encourage 13 cups a day(of fluid and water dense foods). Why is it so important? Water helps our body regulate temperature, metabolism, digestion, and affects kidney and heart function. When dehydrated we are at higher risk for falls, urinary tract infections and GI “complications”.
Seniors lose the sense of thirst with age, so it’s really easy to forget to drink. Medications can affect our water processing as well. Try to remember water rich foods(most fruits, low sodium soups) and flavored non-caffeinated drinks count toward your fluid intake, too! There are flavor additives or carbonated water varieties that may make water more palatable to you as well.
Of course, certain medical conditions(some heart and kidney problems)may call for a fluid restriction. If you are concerned this may mean you, be sure to reach out to your primary care provider for guidance.
For everyone else, have some watermelon, decaf iced tea or plain, high quality H2O! Bottoms up!(no, alcohol doesn’t count!)