As we enter the “dog days of summer” it’s important to focus on optimal hydration to
support our bodies during the hotter months. Hydration is a fundamental aspect of
health and yet most of us (myself included at times) aren’t giving our bodies the
hydration it needs. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, muscle/joint
aches, brain fog, and can even increase food cravings.
Traditional Chinese medicine offers a more nuanced approach to hydration that
considers the body’s unique constitution and of course, everything in Chinese
medicine is about the balance of yin and yang in the body.
Fluids in the body are considered more of a “yin” substance. During the summer months, with more outside
time and heat exposure, we want to consume foods and beverages that support and
build our “yin”.
Here are some practical tips using Traditional Chinese Medicine to stay hydrated from
the inside out:
- SALT. You’ve probably heard at some point in your life that salt is bad, when in reality, salt is a very important nutrient and electrolyte. Don’t be afraid to salt your food with some good quality sea salt or consume a clean
ingredient electrolyte powder that contains sea salt. It’s easy to make your own electrolyte drink at home as well! The salty taste in Chinese medicine food therapy has a direct effect on the kidney channel; the kidneys are important for electrolyte balance and hydration. - EAT YOUR WATER. Consume foods that contain a lot of water naturally. Think cucumbers, watermelon, coconuts/coconut water, celery, bone broth (Make soup with it. Yes, I still eat soup in the summer!)
- DRINK WATER. Try to drink room temperature or warm water when possible. Drinking water without ice and not too cold supports better digestion.
Here is a recipe for one of our favorite homemade electrolyte drinks!
https://wellnessmama.com/recipes/natural-sports-drink/
