Don't forget to hydrate during cold temps

Water supply is currently a concern as much of Texas is experiencing lack of water and boil-water mandates, but an expert from Baylor College of Medicine says that it’s still important to keep your body hydrated to maintain good health.

“Hydration is essential for normal body function, so it’s important to keep up with your hydration for your overall health,” according to Dr. Irvin Sulapas, a primary care sports medicine physician and assistant professor of family and community medicine at Baylor.

Sulapas said that hydration is just as important in colder temperatures as it is in warmer temperatures. When the body doesn’t have enough fluids, it can be hard to maintain regular body temperature. So in extremely cold weather, if your body is shivering, it can mean that your body is trying to extend heat to keep you warm.

If you’re feeling thirsty, Sulapas said it sometimes means you’re already behind the ball in regard to rehydrating yourself. In addition to thirst, common symptoms of dehydration include headaches and feeling lightheaded and dizzy.

Urine color also can be a sign that you’re dehydrated. Urine color should typically be clear or pale yellow, so dark yellow or brown urine are signs of dehydration.

It’s recommended that people drink six to eight glasses of water per day to maintain a healthy level of hydration.

Sulapas also said to be sure that you are following boiled water mandates currently in place across the state.