Stay hydrated, limit sugary, caffeinated drinks amid hot weather — DOH

Keeping hydrated is key amid the sweltering heat.

In Darlene Cay's report on "24 Oras Weekend" Sunday, Department of Health spokesperson Undersecretary Albert Domingo shared some signs of dehydration that one should watch for.

"'Yung dehydration na 'yan ang dahilan kung bakit nawawalan ng malay o kaya nagkakaroon ng problema sa parang inaantok ka, 'yun nga nawawalan ng malay. Hindi ka magising, hindi ka makaisip nang maayos na isa sa mga sintomas ng ating heat stroke," he said.

However, not all drinks help with hydration. It is advised to limit sugary drinks, as well as caffeinated drinks, which can cause dehydration.

"Sundan natin na malinis na tubig kasi pagka-caffeinated, maaari tayong umihi nang mas madalas. Tawag po natin diyan diuretic at mas matutuyuan tayo," he said

It is also recommended to take electrolytes, which are minerals that help regulate the body's absorption of water and other nutrients. Buko juice, for example, naturally has electrolytes.

For those who want to prepare their own electrolyte drink, the Quezon City Health Department has recommended adding half a teaspoon of salt to a liter of water.

Domingo, however, advised the public to watch their sodium intake.

"'Pag masyado tayong asin kasi nagkakaroon tayo ng water retention or 'yung iba kabaligtaran para bang nahihirapan 'yung ating bato, 'yung ating kidney," he said.

Per the report, it is still best to drink clean water equivalent to two liters or 8 to 10 glasses.

Previously, the DOH offered tips to stay protected amid the hot weather, such as keeping track of heat index forecasts, drinking eight to 10 glasses of water daily, refraining from direct sunlight, and wearing loose clothing.

Aside from dehydration, hot temperatures can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

“Heat stroke is a medical emergency occurring when body temperatures exceed 40°C, potentially leading to seizures, coma, or altered mental status. While everyone is at risk, infants, seniors, and those with comorbidities like hypertension or diabetes are most vulnerable,” Domingo had shared. —CDC, GMA News