Did you know that 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated? It’s true. And, during the hot and humid summer months, it’s even more important to stay hydrated in order to make up for the lost fluids due to sweating and being generally more hot than normal. There are several ways you can keep your body healthy and hydrated, besides by just drinking water.
It’s easy for patients to forget to get in the recommended eight glasses of water per day, so in honor of National Hydration Day, we would like to share some easy ways medical marijuana patients can stay ‘high-drated’ this summer!
1. Start Your Day With Oats
Bet you didn’t know you can eat oatmeal as a way to stay hydrated? Cooked oats expand and absorb all of the liquid they are being paired with. Whether you opt for a hot bowl of oatmeal to start your day, or prepare some overnight oats for a cooler treat in the morning, this breakfast will not only keep you full, but it will also keep you hydrated! Another tasty addition to your bowl of oatmeal would be topping it off with some THC infused berry granola squares!
Pro Tip: Add in chia seeds to your oats!These protein-rich seeds will soak up to 10x their weight to ensure that you stay full until lunch time!
2. Add Fruit
Nothing is more boring than plain water! Maybe you choose the classic route and add lemon, or maybe you choose to infuse your water with other seasonal fruits such as strawberries or watermelon!
3. Zoodle It!
What’s a zoodle, you ask? A zoodle is a zucchini noodle! Zucchini noodles are 95% water, so instead of making your pasta with regular noodles skip the carbs and opt for zoodles!
4. Substitute Tomato Sauce/Juice
Did you know that tomato sauce is 90% water? If you’re trying to increase your fluid intake, consider using tomato sauce with your meals or with your zucchini noodles! And, you can always switch up your water intake by drinking a tomato juice such as V8.
Pro Tip: Warm up your V8 in the microwave and pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich! This is a healthy alternative, that will keep you hydrated and give you a full serving of fruits and veggies.
5. Drink Milk
Did you know that milk is more hydrating than water? A recent study reveals that drinking milk is more hydrating than water due to milk’s increased amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, and electrolytes.
6. Popsicles
Another fun idea instead of drinking a boring glass of water. Try out this recipe for making your own homemade fruit popsicles. These tasty pops will help you stay cool and hydrated during the hot summer days!
7. Smoothies
Medical marijuana patients can shake up a traditional smoothie by simply adding drops of their favorite tincture. This easy recipe addition provides pain relief and hydration!
8. Coffee & Tea
For some, there’s no other way to start off the day than with a cup of Joe. Coffee and tea are two water alternatives that count toward your daily fluid intake. Although they are not as hydrating as a glass of water, coffee and tea still hydrate while also providing a small boost of caffeine.
9. Veggies, Veggies, Veggies!
Around 30percent of your plate should be filled with vegetables to ensure you are getting important nutrients needed for good digestion, maintaining healthy body weight, and keeping your bones strong. Dark, leafy greens are up to 94wather water, so salads are a great way to maintain hydration. Another great option to consider pairing with your salad, would be THC infused Olive Oil, which is now available at several Ohio dispensaries!
10. JELL-O
JELL-O is a great summer snack for staying cool while making sure you're getting your fluid intake in. Some things you may consider to add to your JELL-O, would be fresh fruit, marshmallows, or even yogurt!
As you can see, there are many ways you can keep your body healthy and hydrated. What’s your favorite way to stay hydrated?