What to drink rehydrate myself?

It's great that you're thinking about rehydration! Here's a breakdown of what to drink and when, depending on your situation:

For General Hydration:

* Water: This is the best and most readily available choice. Plain water is the simplest way to replenish fluids.

* Electrolyte Drinks: These are helpful when you've lost electrolytes through sweating, like after exercise or being sick. Look for drinks with sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Examples include:

* Sports drinks (Gatorade, Powerade)

* Pedialyte (also good for children)

* Homemade electrolyte drinks (recipes online)

* Coconut Water: Naturally rich in electrolytes, but not as good as water for general hydration.

When You're Dehydrated:

* Water: Start with plain water to rehydrate your body.

* Electrolyte Drinks: These are helpful for restoring lost electrolytes and encouraging fluid retention.

* Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): Available over-the-counter, these are specifically designed to rehydrate you quickly during illness or after diarrhea/vomiting.

* Broth/Soup: The salt in broth can help replenish electrolytes, and the warmth can be soothing.

When You're Exercising:

* Water: Essential for staying hydrated during workouts.

* Sports Drinks: If you're exercising for more than an hour or at high intensity, sports drinks can help replace lost electrolytes.

Things to Avoid:

* Sugary Drinks: While soda and juice can be tempting, they can dehydrate you in the long run.

* Alcohol: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you pee more, leading to dehydration.

How Much to Drink:

* General Hydration: Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day.

* After Exercise: Drink enough water to replace what you've lost through sweat.

* Illness: Follow your doctor's instructions for fluid intake.

Listen to Your Body:

* Drink when you're thirsty: Don't wait until you're parched.

* Pay attention to your urine color: Clear or light yellow urine indicates good hydration. Dark yellow urine is a sign of dehydration.

Remember: If you're experiencing severe dehydration, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.