Diabetes and Dehydration | Why Should Diabetics Stay Hydrated During the Summer Season? – ETHealthWorld

By Sujata Sharma

People who experience a dry mouth and frequent thirst are often categorised as diabetics. This raises the question of how are dehydration and diabetes related? Let us try and understand how staying hydrated can help you maintain your sugar levels.

When your body has high levels of sugar for a prolonged period of time, your kidneys need to work more to get rid of this excess glucose. This can only happen by means of urination. Drinking adequate amounts of water can help you both in staying hydrated and also in getting rid of the extra glucose present in your body.

Diabetes and Dehydration | Diabetic Ketoacidosis

This is a condition which is common with people having Type 1 Diabetes. When your cells cant absorb sugar for producing energy, it will start using fat instead. It will release a type of acid called Ketones in your bloodstream. Having too many ketones in your bloodstream can cause serious complications.

Ketones in your bloodstream can lead to a major loss of fluids in your body. Some severe symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include vomiting, dry skin, flushed face, muscle stiffness, headaches, etc.

Common Symptoms of DehydrationWhile dehydration does not have any major symptoms, some of its minor symptoms include-

Apart from water, there are other diabetes-friendly drinks that can help you stay hydrated. You can go for lemon water, infused water, herbal teas, skimmed milk, or even sugar-free coffee. They help you in treating your tastebuds and stay healthy at the same time.

However, you should avoid carbonated beverages, juices and sodas that contain high amounts of sugar. They can cause a spike in your sugar levels. Even energy drinks can be harmful for diabetics, despite the other benefits that they have to offer.

Other Benefits of Staying Hydrated

Staying hydrated can also entail other benefits such as - preventing infections, lubricating your joints, delivering nutrients to your cells, regulating your body temperature, ensuring the proper functioning of your body. Apart from these benefits, it is also scientifically proven that staying hydrated can help you improve your mood, cognition and sleep cycle.

Even after drinking ample amounts of water, if you still feel dehydrated, you should always talk to your doctor or health coach. They will change your diabetes medication or suggest the right diet or lifestyle changes. You should also not forget to monitor your sugar levels on a regular basis to keep a track of your diabetic condition.

By Sujata Sharma, Diabetes Care Coach, BeatO App

(DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETHealthworld does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETHealthworld.com shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person / organisation directly or indirectly.)

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Diabetes and Dehydration | Why Should Diabetics Stay Hydrated During the Summer Season? - ETHealthWorld