Tag

Hydration

All articles tagged with #hydration

Six everyday habits quietly damaging your kidneys—and how to protect them
health6 days ago

Six everyday habits quietly damaging your kidneys—and how to protect them

Kidney health can be silently harmed by daily choices: frequent NSAID painkillers, hidden salt in processed foods, a diet dominated by ultra-processed products, mismanaged hydration (not too little or too much), and smoking; plus not regularly checking blood pressure, blood sugar, or kidney function can delay detection of problems—so use painkillers cautiously, watch sodium, opt for minimally processed meals, stay appropriately hydrated, quit smoking, and discuss routine kidney screening with a clinician.

Milk Could Be a More Effective Hydration Source Than Water
health15 days ago

Milk Could Be a More Effective Hydration Source Than Water

A TODAY health expert says milk (skim or whole) can outperform water in hydrating the body because its natural electrolytes, plus fat and protein, help retain fluids longer. Small studies suggest milk may keep people hydrated longer than water. For extra hydration, options include milk, water paired with a salty snack, coconut water, or a DIY electrolyte drink; people who sweat heavily, are ill, or take certain medications may benefit from electrolytes, though most can stay hydrated with regular water and meals.

One Swap to Boost Gut Health and Cut Cancer Risk
health16 days ago

One Swap to Boost Gut Health and Cut Cancer Risk

Dietitians at a major nutrition conference urge people to ditch sugary drinks to improve gut health, boost energy, and lower cancer risk. Sugar-sweetened beverages are a leading source of added sugar, with a typical can containing about 40 grams, pushing many over the 25–50 gram daily limit and linked to risks like type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, liver and kidney damage, tooth decay, and certain cancers. While cutting sugar is beneficial, switching to diet sodas may reduce sugar intake but comes with uncertain long‑term effects from artificial sweeteners and potential gut microbiome disruption; current guidance favors mostly plain water, with seltzer or 100% fruit juice in moderation, and coffee/tea without added sugar or cream.

Why You Drool at Night: What’s Normal and What Should Alarm You
health-and-wellness21 days ago

Why You Drool at Night: What’s Normal and What Should Alarm You

Nighttime drooling is usually normal and tied to mouth-breathing and REM sleep, but new, heavy, or persistent drool or signs like loud snoring, dehydration, or neurological symptoms warrant medical attention. Remedies focus on improving the airway (treat nasal congestion, allergies, colds, deviated septum), staying hydrated, managing reflux, and adjusting sleep habits (back vs side sleeping) or using devices like mouth guards or chin straps.

Milk Could Hydrate You More Than Water, Study Finds
health22 days ago

Milk Could Hydrate You More Than Water, Study Finds

While water is the standard for hydration, several studies since 2007 find milk—thanks to its electrolytes, protein, and fat—can maintain fluid balance longer than water and even rival specialized rehydration drinks. However, these studies have small sample sizes and short observation periods, so experts still emphasize water as the default hydrating option and caution about added calories and sugar.

Beat Dehydration at 30,000 Feet with These Simple Flight Hacks
health28 days ago

Beat Dehydration at 30,000 Feet with These Simple Flight Hacks

Flight cabins dry you out from low humidity and cabin pressure, so health experts recommend hydrating before, during, and after flights: sip water from a refillable bottle, include electrolytes via foods like bananas, spinach, avocados, or electrolyte drinks, and limit alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, and heavy or salty snacks. Eat smaller, balanced meals before boarding and opt for protein‑rich snacks to aid digestion and prevent fatigue; add water‑rich produce such as watermelon, grapes, cucumbers, and celery to help maintain hydration.

Brain-Boosting Habits to Lower Alzheimer's Risk, Says Preventive Neurologist
health29 days ago

Brain-Boosting Habits to Lower Alzheimer's Risk, Says Preventive Neurologist

Dr. Kellyann Niotis, a preventive neurologist, shares science-backed daily habits to reduce Alzheimer's risk: stay well hydrated (the brain is largely water), eat berries daily for antioxidants, include fatty fish twice weekly for omega-3s, and prioritize heavier strength training several times a week to preserve muscle mass linked to brain health. She also advocates variety in workouts and social interactions to boost brain reserve, highlighting links between muscle mass and hippocampal health and offering concrete, actionable steps beyond generic advice.

Electrolyte Drinks: Do You Really Need Them, and How Much Is Too Much?
health1 month ago

Electrolyte Drinks: Do You Really Need Them, and How Much Is Too Much?

Electrolyte powders and drinks have surged in popularity, but for most healthy adults water and a balanced diet already cover electrolyte needs. They’re mainly useful during long, sweat-heavy exercise, illness with fluid loss, or fasting. Natural sources like milk and coconut water can help hydration, while many products are high in sodium or added sugars, making them more lifestyle items than medical essentials.

Flight Hydration 101: Beat Dehydration and Bloating on Your Next Trip
health1 month ago

Flight Hydration 101: Beat Dehydration and Bloating on Your Next Trip

Experts say cabin dryness on flights can cause dehydration and bloating. To stay comfortable, hydrate before, during, and after travel with water and electrolytes, opt for water-rich foods and protein-forward snacks, and avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine, salty or gas-producing foods. Eat balanced, smaller meals ahead of time and carry a refillable bottle to maintain fluid balance.

Beat the Heat: Quick Strategies for Heat Rash and Sun Poisoning
health1 month ago

Beat the Heat: Quick Strategies for Heat Rash and Sun Poisoning

Dermatologists explain that heat rash (miliaria) happens when sweat ducts are blocked and it’s different from a sunburn. To treat and prevent heat rash, stay cool and dry, wear breathable clothing (including UPF hats/swimwear), avoid heavy creams that can clog sweat ducts, and use a gentle antibacterial cleanser with a topical hydrocortisone if itchy. Sun poisoning isn’t a formal diagnosis but signifies a very severe sunburn with fever, chills, nausea and dehydration; prevent and treat it with SPF 30+ sunscreen reapplied every two hours, seek shade during peak sun, stay hydrated with electrolyte packets, and seek urgent medical care if symptoms worsen or blisters appear. The piece also notes helpful products like Banana Boat SPF 50, DripDrop hydration packets, Ponyflo Sunblocker hat, Jisulife handheld fan, and Cortizone 10 anti-itch cream.

Protein Overload: Signs You're Eating Too Much and How to Rebalance
health1 month ago

Protein Overload: Signs You're Eating Too Much and How to Rebalance

Protein is essential for muscle and immune health, but too much can crowd out fiber and carbs and trigger constipation, increased urination, fatigue, cravings, and possible weight gain; the recommended range is about 1.2–1.6 g/kg of body weight per day, adjusted for activity, and a balanced plan that pairs protein with carbs and fiber—ideally with guidance from a dietitian.

Cyclospora outbreak tied to Taco Bell lettuce prompts guidance on symptoms and care
health1 month ago

Cyclospora outbreak tied to Taco Bell lettuce prompts guidance on symptoms and care

A cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce used in Taco Bell meals has sickened thousands across multiple states. People typically experience frequent watery diarrhea, dehydration and flu-like symptoms for weeks. Diagnosis requires stool testing (often PCR or microscopy), and treatment usually includes the antibiotic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, with alternatives for those allergic. Most recover with careful hydration and a bland diet, but persistent diarrhea or signs of dehydration warrant medical evaluation, and public health authorities are tracing exposures.

Morning Fuel: Dietitians' Guide to Breakfast for Steady Energy
health1 month ago

Morning Fuel: Dietitians' Guide to Breakfast for Steady Energy

Dietitians say a balanced, protein-packed breakfast with fiber-rich carbohydrates and healthy fats keeps energy steady from morning through the day. Coffee should supplement—not replace—a meal, and smart snacks (eggs or yogurt with fruit, whole-grain toast with nut butter, veggies with hummus) help prevent mid-day slumps. Stay hydrated with water-rich foods, and aim for meals that combine produce, whole grains, and protein at lunch and dinner to sustain energy.

Ghost Poops Reveal What Your Digestion Is Trying to Tell You
health1 month ago

Ghost Poops Reveal What Your Digestion Is Trying to Tell You

Ghost poops—poops that leave little trace—usually align with Bristol stool type 4, indicating a healthy gut with adequate fiber and hydration. They're generally a good sign rather than a red flag, though they’re rarer than normal; to support them, aim for about 30g of fiber daily, stay hydrated, exercise, and poop at a consistent time. If you experience persistent urges with little or no stool, or have symptoms like pain or tenesmus, see a GP.