Dehydration is a risk for all of us and can be extremely dangerous. But for people with diabetes, this risk is even greater. Read on to find out more about the link between dehydration and diabetes, and how to effectively stay hydrated.
Why does diabetes increase dehydration risks?
Two common symptoms of diabetes are urinating more frequently and feeling thirsty more often. This is due to the way our kidneys respond to high blood glucose levels. The kidneys help to clear waste from the body by passing it as urine. When blood glucose levels remain high for too long, the kidneys excrete some of this glucose in the urine.
This requires water from the body in order to pass the excess glucose, often pulling water from your body’s cells. Since people with diabetes do not produce enough insulin to balance their blood sugar levels, this process happens much more frequently, leaving them needing to replenish the water used and passed in the urine.
Staying hydrated with diabetes
It’s important for everyone to drink enough fluids throughout the day, especially in hot weather or if you are very active. People with diabetes may have to be even more vigilant about drinking enough and making sure they stay properly hydrated. It is important that you can recognize the signs of dehydration, allowing you to rehydrate before the symptoms and side effects become too severe.
Remaining vigilant about your condition is also important. So, make sure you always monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, at least four times per day. It’s a good idea to test them more frequently in hot weather or if you are exercising. Make sure you have insulin, snacks, and plenty of water with you in case your glucose levels are high and need to be lowered.
Try to avoid high-sugar drinks when hydrating as these can cause your blood sugar to spike, increasing urination as outlined above. Water is the best option to help you stay hydrated and control your blood glucose levels, so make sure you always have water handy to drink. Carrying a refillable water bottle with you is a good idea. And having a source of fresh, cool water at home and at work will also make it easier to stay hydrated.
If you think a water dispenser or a spring water delivery service could help keep you hydrated throughout the day, then contact Mountain Park Spring Water to arrange for water delivery around Kernersville, Winston Salem, High Point, and Greensboro, NC.
