World Milk Day starts in summer, which is the season for fun in the sun and enjoying time outdoors. But as the temperature rises, so does the risk of dehydration. Dehydration occurs when our body loses more fluid than is taken in. When our internal fluid content lowers, it upsets the balance of nutrients in the body, affecting how it functions. Mild to moderate dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening.
Anyone can become dehydrated, but those who work, play, and exercise outside are at greater risk. The good news is that you can prevent and reverse mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more milk and fluids throughout the day! Research shows that milk is one of the best beverages for hydration, even better than water or sports drinks.
Milk’s electrolyte content, carbohydrates, and high-quality protein may make it more effective than water or sports drinks at maintaining normal hydration status after exercise. Celebrate World Milk Day every day. Make milk an everyday beverage with meals and snacks—a simple way to stay stocked up on valuable electrolytes and avoid dehydration. And think of milk and chocolate milk when packing summer camp lunches, snack bags, coolers, and gym bags to beat the heat and prevent dehydration.
Using print, TV, and the radio, Rebecca Turner translates the complex world of nutrition into understandable, and achievable concepts. Purchase her books Mind Over Fork and Enjoy Good Health on Amazon. On weekdays, she hosts Good Things with Rebecca Turner on SuperTalk Mississippi. Connect with her online at RebeccaTurnerNutrition.com.