Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Health Tips for July 29

Health Tip: Prevent Dehydration

It's easy to get dehydrated if you're not careful. A stomach bug, sweating outside in the hot weather, and just not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, a serious condition.

Stay well-hydrated with these suggestions from the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Drink plenty of fluids -- especially water -- each day.
* When exercising or sweating, and during hot weather, be sure to drink more water.
* Elderly people, children and people who are sick need to be carefully monitored to prevent dehydration.
* Drink plenty of fluids if you are vomiting, have a fever, or have diarrhea.
* If you think you may be starting to get dehydrated, contact your doctor at once -- before you start to have symptoms.
* Warning signs of dehydration may include: not producing tears, sunken eyes, little or no urine output for eight hours or more, rapid heartbeat, listlessness, and dry skin, mouth or eyes.

Health Tip: Eat More Vegetables

Instead of getting bored with the same old vegetable choices that take too long to prepare, choose convenience and variety in your vegetables.

Here are easy ways to get plenty of vegetables in your diet, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture:

* Buy fresh vegetables that are in season -- they'll be at their peak flavor, and often less expensive.
* Keep plenty of frozen vegetables on hand for quick and easy microwave meals and sides.
* Look for conveniently packed vegetables, such as washed and peeled carrots, pre-washed bags of salads, and cut vegetables.
* Save time by making a baked potato in the microwave instead of the oven.
* Alternate your veggie choices and how you cook them. Try them raw and crunchy, then try them steamed.

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