Part of India is going under severe winter, but at other places, winter is not that harsh. One of the things that is usually ignore in winter is to stay hydrated. During, summer, the body feels the need for water, and DEHYDRATION symptoms are easily identifiable. But in winter too body need to stay hydrated, even though we do not lose fluids by way of sweat. Also, it is possible that even if we are losing sweat, we may not be aware of it as we are usually in warm clothing, which absorbs the same. At times, we feel a faint smell, that indicates that the body is sweating in winter too. The dry air in winter aids dehydration of our body, but we do not feel thirsty as we do in summer. As a result, we almost always drink lesser water in winter but do not realize it.
How Does Water Help?
So, it is necessary to drink water in winter, especially as much we do in the summer season, and will it harm us in any way if we do not? The answer is yes, as drinking water has a lot of benefits. For one, it helps maintain our body temperature. So, it keeps our body temperature as it should be during winter and help avoid issues like hypothermia.
When your body is hydrated, your immunity is maintained, and as such, if you drink enough water in winter, it can help you keep many diseases at bay, especially seasonal allergies. Also, water is what helps break down fats in the body, and hence, so that we should not gain excess weight in winter, we should continue to drink water. Remember that, in winter, we also do less exercise, as we feel lazy, and the climate adds to the gloominess.
Most of us develop dry, itchy, and scaly skin in winter. While we surely need to use some moisturisers or oils to keep the skin smooth, drinking sufficient water can help in this cause as well. A point to be noted is that one should not drink cold water, and preferably should take warm water, or at least at room temperature.
The Options
You may set a reminder to drink water at intervals, many phones and apps have that option now how to remind you at the time set. Other than drinking water, you may also eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the seasonal ones that contain water content. For example, fruits like strawberries, oranges, limes, and pineapple help in this task. Also, vegetables like fresh greens, carrots, spinach, and cucumber also help to improve water intake. While these kinds of fluid intake should be increased, it is also ideal to avoid or limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption. These add to your dehydration, so it is better to take in limited quantities. We love our hot cup of tea in the winter, however do not overdo the same.
You may instead opt for hot soups and broths that can add to the water intake of your body. The soups will also help in feeling good and fresh and keep you healthy as well. Along with all this, it is important not to exercise too much, and ensure intake of immune-boosting foods and herbs to keep yourself healthy. If you must have tea, make it herbal with mint, honey, and tulsi.
All these steps can help us tide through winter safely and healthily.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
2nd February 2022
Tejinder Singh Sethi
During the cold winter months, sweat evaporates quicker and this can lead individuals to believe they’re not losing fluids as rapidly as on a warm summer day. However, this is not the case.
Cooler temperatures can also reduce the body’s thirst response, meaning you might be less likely to consume water. And you know how you can often see your breath in the cold air? This is actually water vapor your body is losing that needs to be replenished.