Unless you work for the weather bureau, the only thing we can predict about the weather is its unpredictability.
While much of our country still suffers the effects of severe drought, floods are overwhelming towns in Queensland and northern NSW. The north coast is still threatened by cyclone activity and east coast beaches have been destroyed by the activity of enormous waves.
January in parts of Australia is traditionally festival time; but this year there could be plenty of singing in the rain.
From an environmental point of view, whether the weather is kind to you or not this month, we will all need some water on the inside – and in the summer time that need for water increases. We can last weeks without food but only days without water. Our bodies can’t store water, so we need fresh supplies every day to replace that 3 litres or so we lose through our lungs, our skin, urine and faeces.
Not replacing water sufficiently leads to symptoms of dehydration – headaches, fatigue, mood changes, slow reaction time, dry lips, dry mouth and dry nasal passages.
In severe cases weakness is more pronounced, confusion occurs, kidneys fail and the body can’t remove toxic waste products. Death can result.
In hot weather re-hydration is especially important. Drink before you get to the stage of feeling thirsty. Water is the best option (the best value, too). Remember other drinks – some soft drinks, tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks – are no real substitute. Although they contain water they also contain dehydrating agents.
The so-called isotonic sports drinks are a suitable alternative particularly during intense or prolonged exercise.
When dehydration is caused by profuse sweating or vomiting or diarrhoea, the oral rehydration solutions such as Gastrolyte or Hydralyte are a good choice.
Water keeps you feeling good and looking good. It’s required to regulate our body temperature. It helps digestion and the excretion of waste products. It reduces the risk of kidney stones and bladder infections. It lubricates and cushions the joints. And it works as a moisturiser to improve the skin texture and appearance.
Depending on where you live, there may be restrictions on washing the car or watering the garden, but there’s no restriction on watering and washing you body’s inside.
However you plan to enjoy this summer – whether you’re playing a round of golf, watching the tennis or cricket, perhaps you’ve found a beach where the sand hasn’t been washed away, or maybe you’re heading to Parkes with all the other Elvis impersonators – along with your hat and your sunscreen, make sure you have plenty of water.
