Finally some good news! According to a study by the CDC, Americans are drinking enough water. Now that I think about it, I really haven’t heard much about drinking 8 cups of water a day lately. And I guess that’s because we’re doing it! Actually, it appears we’re not just getting hydrated through water consumption, but also through other beverages and even water-based foods we eat. But drinking water is still the best way to hydrate.
Hydration is important for everyone, and maybe even more so for those with diabetes. When you have diabetes, the risk for dry skin is higher. The best way to prevent dry skin is to keep our bodies hydrated (moisturizing cream is a treatment for dry skin, while drinking water is a prevention).
When blood glucose is elevated, drinking water is even more important for staying hydrated – elevated blood glucose can cause dehydration.
Dehydration can lead to feeling fuzzy and even passing out. Sounds similar to low blood glucose symptoms, doesn’t it? Another reason to stay hydrated – we don’t want to confuse the two.
Water, however, is NOT a treatment for low blood glucose. Many years ago I came upon a man who was low and a security officer said, “Don’t worry, we have someone getting him a glass of water.”
And a trick when you are feeling cold is to drink cool or even lukewarm water. Ask for no ice in a restaurant. Of course, in most parts of the country the 4th of July is a hot, sunny day, and cold water is refreshing. In fact, I think I’ll go have a glass of water right now.