Hot weather is here, and this week's heat wave has been stifling. It's important to stay safe when having fun in the sun this summer. So, if you're planning to spend time outside, be sure you're prepared with the essentials to keep cool.
Here are 10 items you can use to survive this year's heat waves and summer highs.
1. Electrolyte powder
When you spend lots of time in the heat, your body actively loses water and electrolytes -- minerals found in the body that have a charge -- through sweat. It's important to replace that lost water and electrolytes with fluids. If you struggle to drink eight cups of water a day in the summer (and sometimes you need more if you're extremely active in the heat), an electrolyte drink can help replenish your body.
The best electrolyte powders usually contain sodium, calcium, potassium, phosphate, chloride or magnesium. Electrolytes such as these can balance your body's water and pH levels, move nutrients throughout your cells, carry out waste from your cells, and ensure all muscles, bodily functions and nerves are working properly.
Amazon/Screenshot by CNET Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Liquid I.V. powder provides two times faster hydration than water alone. It includes five vitamins and and many electrolytes. One bag of Liquid I.V. includes 16 on-the-go packets. Add one packet to 16 ounces of water and stir. $23 at Amazon $31 at Walmart
2. Reusable water bottle
Rule No. 1 for surviving the heat: drink lots of water. Whether this is water or an electrolyte drink, hydration in the summer is key. You don't want to become dehydrated. Symptoms of dehydration include feeling tired, dark yellow urine, sunken eyes, headache and feeling lightheaded.
I find that I drink the most water when I carry a water bottle around with me. I also drink more water when it stays ice cold throughout the day. An insulated water bottle -- one made with stainless steel -- will do just that.
Amazon/Screenshot by CNET Hydro Flask Choose between an 18-, 21- or 24-ounce Hydro Flask. Made with Pro-Made stainless steel, this water bottle is non-free, BPA-free and keeps water cold for up to 24 hours. $32 at Amazon
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