The Importance of Hydration in Rising Temperatures

Hydration is important. In temperatures like those we’re increasingly seeing in much of the world, sweating can be the only way for our bodies to cool down, and our thirst isn’t always the best indicator of how much water we’ve lost or need. [...] Booze is a bit trickier. Technically, one low-ABV drink of about 4% can have a net-hydrating effect: though alcohol is a much more potent diuretic than caffeine, a pint of lager or a fruit cocktail can contain enough water to offset the effect. [...] So while drinks manufacturers make hydration sound highly technical, best practice is reasonably simple: drink a big glass of water every couple of hours, preferably with food, and add in more if it’s hot, you’re physically active, or planning to be so.