Dehydration

Drink Plenty of Water

As you travel abroad, potential dehydration should always be at the forefront of your mind.  Whether your traveling on the plane, visiting temples, or waiting in the doctor’s office, make sure you drink plenty of water at all times.  8 oz (237 ml) every waking hour is a good rule of thumb.  This might seem like a lot, but you can never have too much water.  This is especially true in medical tourism destinations like India and Thailand; 2 countries known for their heat and humidity. 

Additional Thoughts about Water

Not all fluids are created equal.  8 oz of coffee, cola, or alcohol is not the same as 8 oz of water.  Diuretics (like caffeine and alcohol) actually rob you of water over the long run.  To ensure that your body remains properly hydrated throughout your medical vacation: 

• Stick with water as much as possible.  Natural fruit juices are sometimes okay, but they often contain a lot of sugar (fructose) and added preservatives.  There’s no substitute for water.

• Only drink water that has been sealed, purified, or boiled.  If you are ever unsure of the source, don’t take any chances.  This includes restaurants, stores, and hospital facilities.  Even if you see locals drinking the water, it’s best to play it safe.  Our bodies build up immunity to bacteria over time.  Although the water in Manila might be perfectly fine for local Filipinos, your body won’t necessarily be able to handle it.

• Avoid ice cubes unless you can verify their origin.  Often they are made from treated water, but you can’t always be sure.

• Carry water with you whenever possible.  Rarely will you ever be far from a store or restaurant, but why take any chances?  When you leave your hotel every morning, be sure to include a bottle of water in your daypack.  And be sure to resupply your bag as often as possible.

• Airplanes are notorious when it comes to dehydration.  Long hours sitting, fluctuating cabin pressure, interrupted sleep schedules…it’s best to accept every refreshment offer that comes along.  When the flight attendant wheels the beverage cart down the aisle, ask for a glass of water.