DRINK UP

Are you drinking enough water? Many kids aren’t, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Public Health. The study’s lead author, Erica Kenney, a scientist at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, originally planned to look into the amount of sugary drinks kids consumed in schools. However, during her research, she found that many kids were simply not drinking enough water. While looking through the survey results, she noticed that more than half of the kids who participated were dehydrated.
How much is enough?
The human body is made up of 60% water. Not drinking enough water can lead to health problems such as headaches, irritability, poor physical performance, and even more serious issues. Your body needs more water when you are in hot climates, when you are physically active, and if you have a fever. The United States National Agriculture Library says on average, kids need between 10 to 14 cups of water every day.
Tips for staying hydrated
The United States Center for Disease Control offers the following tips for people to stay hydrated:
• Carry a water bottle for easy access.
• Freeze some freezer-safe water bottles. Take one with you for ice-cold water all day long.
• Choose water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages.
• Choose water instead of other beverages when eating out