We often rightly remember to stay hydrated when the weather is nice and warm, especially during heat waves. However, the risks of dehydration are just as frequent and dangerous in winter. Mineral explains and shares his tips for facing winter with complete peace of mind.
Cold weather, a factor in dehydration in winter
Winter is a challenging season that puts the body under considerable strain. With falling temperatures, low humidity, and dry air, the body experiences the same water stress as in summer. To combat the cold, the body produces heat to raise its internal temperature. However, layering clothing or engaging in more intense physical activity to stay warm can quickly lead to overheating. The thermoregulation mechanism kicks in, and the body reacts by releasing water through perspiration. It’s worth noting that a natural evaporation process also occurs when the skin is in contact with the air, and this process is intensified in cold, dry conditions.
Another consequence of the winter cold is that blood vessels constrict, blood circulation decreases, and with it, the water carried by the blood, leading to dehydration. Heating, as well as the sudden temperature changes the body experiences when going from hot to cold, also increase water loss through the skin and thus the risk of dehydration. Furthermore, winter weather conditions discourage drinking, and the sensation of thirst is less pronounced, particularly in infants and the elderly.
How to avoid dehydration in winter
To cope with the harshness of winter and prevent dehydration, here are some tips to follow.
1) Drink enough
It can’t be stressed enough: drinking water is essential for proper hydration and staying healthy. To meet your daily fluid needs, it’s recommended to drink 1.5 liters of water per day, the equivalent of 8 glasses. With MINERAL Water, you also get a boost of minerals, particularly magnesium and calcium, ideal for staying healthy all winter long.
To stay hydrated in winter while enjoying a delicious and warming meal, nothing beats homemade soup. Besides its excellent hydrating properties, soup is quick and easy to make, invigorating, and provides a complete and balanced meal.
2) Moisturize your skin
Winter’s harsh conditions, such as wind, rain, and snow, weaken the skin. The signs of dehydration are unmistakable: dryness, tightness, redness, discomfort, roughness, and chapping. It is advisable to apply a moisturizing cream morning and evening to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. This barrier helps limit surface water loss by retaining moisture in the upper layers of the epidermis.
3) Control the temperature of your home and humidify the ambient air
The cold and windy winter weather forces us to constantly heat our homes and offices. However, heating the air also dries it out. Air that is too hot and too dry can increase the risk of dehydration. With a humidity level below 30%, skin becomes dry and eyes start to sting. To humidify the air in your home, it is recommended to install a humidifier in the main rooms.
