hydration Archives

Why is My Throat Dry?

September 7, 2023 By Susan Patterson

Dry throat is a pretty common ailment, and it can often be hard to pinpoint the exact causes of this condition and get relief. Generally speaking, dry throat can be explained by minor changes in medication, cold and flu, or merely not drinking enough water. However, it may also be an indication of a more severe underlying condition that could require medical attention. Here are a few reasons you may have a dry throat and what to do about it.

Note: If you have persistent dry throat for more than 1-2 weeks or any of the following symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor as soon as possible.

Trouble swallowing
Wheezing or shortness of breath
High fever over 101.0 degrees Fahrenheit
Rash
Chest pain
Extreme fatigue

Reasons you may have a dry throat

Allergies

‘Tis the season for allergies galore. Spring often takes down even the most resilient with a battery of seasonal allergies or hay fever. When these allergens get into your body, they cause an overreaction of the immune system and a release of histamines that can produce the following symptoms.

Dry throat
Cough
Stuffy or runny nose
Itchy skin, mouth, or eyes

It’s a good idea to try to isolate what your body is responding to with an environmental allergy. That way, you can try to avoid it or plan-ahead by taking precautionary anti-histamines. These are a few common allergens.

Pollen
Grass
Mold
Dust mites
Pet hair
Certain foods

Dehydration

Though this seems like a no-brainer, we are often very adept at ignoring our bodies signals of dehydration. If a drink of water alleviates your dry throat, then you may have solved the problem.

Common cold (or flu)

We’re all familiar with that dry or sore throat feeling that comes along with the onset of a cough, runny nose, and excessive sneezing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people will contract an average of 2-3 cases of the common cold every year.

Symptoms of the common cold or flu:

Coughing
Sneezing
Mild fever
Body aches
Runny or stuffy nose
Sore/dry throat
Chills

Maintain proper hygiene and frequently wash your hands with warm soap and water to prevent the spread of bacteria that leads to a cold. Be sure to build up your immune system with an adequate amount of leafy greens and other vitamin-rich vegetables.

The flu is usually a more serious respiratory condition and may require longer recovery time.

Sleeping with your mouth open

If you notice a dry throat right after you wake up, you are most likely sleeping with your mouth open which dries out the saliva that your mouth produces to keep it moist. This could be related to a cold if you have a stuffy nose and are unable to breathe through it, or it could be an unrelated sleeping habit. If you are prone to snoring or fall asleep in an upright position, this is most likely the cause of your dry throat.

Tonsilitis

Tonsilitis is an inflammation of the tonsils in the back of the throat. This inflammation is usually caused by a virus or bacteria and can cause a dry throat along with these other symptoms.

Headache
Swollen, red, or white patches on the tonsils
Fever
Bad breath
Hoarse voice
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Natural dry throat remedies

Saltwater: Gargle with warm salt water to help soothe a dry throat and prevent scratching.

Avoidance: If your dry throat is related to allergies, try eliminating them from your home or avoiding them if possible.

Staying hydrated: Even if your dry throat is not directly related to dehydration, it is essential that you keep your throat moist. Try drinking lemon water or warm tea with honey. Avoid drinks with ice as these can irritate the throat.

Honey: Taking a spoonful of honey can help remedy dry throat. Be sure to use local, raw, organic honey.

Keep in mind that each cause of dry throat may have a different remedy. It is important to isolate the root of the issue and work on treatment from there.

Have you had any experience with a dry throat? Which remedies worked for you? Let us know in the comments below!

-Susan Patterson

The Truth Behind Salt..It’s More Complicated than You Think

July 10, 2019 By Susan Patterson

For decades doctors, nutritionists, and health experts have been warning the general populace about the dangers of salt. Yes, that seemingly insignificant seasoning you sprinkle over your meat, eggs, and just about everything else has long been condemned as a dietary villain. But what is the truth behind salt? Is it really as bad as everyone thinks? The answer is a complicated one…

[Read more…]

5 Natural Ways to Combat an Arid Climate

April 29, 2019 By Susan Patterson

There is just something so alluring about the atmosphere of the desert that causes many people to move to the lands of sweeping mountains, dusty open roads, and 0% humidity. If you live in the western part of the United States, you are probably used to hearing the term “it’s a dry heat” as you dart from one air-conditioned building to the next. Or if you’re preparing to make a transition to an arid climate, you may be wondering just what toll this lack of moisture has on your skin and body. Fortunately, living in a dry climate doesn’t have to be dangerous. Here are a few natural ways to combat an arid climate and ensure you stay moisturized even in the heart of the desert.

Get a humidifier

This is perhaps the single most essential step for returning critical moisture to your body and remaining hydrated. Purchase a large humidifier for your bedroom and keep it running whenever you sleep. A lot of humidifiers also support essential oil use so you can utilize the power of aromatherapy as well. This is especially crucial if you live in a hot area and use air conditioning as this already dries out your body and can be detrimental for your skin and lungs.

Lotion is your new best friend

You may have been able to get away without moisturizing in the humid jungle of Florida, but in the Mountains of Colorado or the red rocks of Arizona, you’re going to need to take your skincare game up a notch. Focus on natural lotion products that are specifically geared towards ultimate hydration. You’ll want to check for ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera, shea butter, or olive oil. Be sure that whatever lotion you use does not have alcohol derivatives (which act as drying agents), parabens, chemicals, or any other ingredients you don’t recognize.

You may want to try making your own lotion. Using one of the ingredients listed above and a few drops of essential oil, you have a totally customized, hydrating lotion that you can feel good about using. Rub moisturizer all over your body when your skin is still damp after your shower. This will help give your skin time to absorb and lock in the moisture.

Drink more water than you think you need

It is never a good idea to wait until you get thirsty to drink water. Being thirsty is actually an early sign of dehydration and means that your body is already crying out for water. When there is less water in the environment, you have to work twice as hard to replenish what you lose during workouts or normal day to day activities. It can also be hard to remember to drink water because you don’t sweat as much as you would in an area with high humidity levels. Always try to err on the side of caution and drink more water than you think you need. A good rule of thumb is half your body weight in ounces each day, but this will need to be adjusted according to activity levels and the amount of caffeine you consume.

Protect your skin

Generally speaking, arid climates have more days of full sun than places that experience frequent rain and cloud cover. This means that it is incredibly easy to get sunburn and other sun-related skin conditions when exposed to such bright UV rays on a constant basis. Be sure to protect your sun whenever you go outside. Wear breathable, lightweight clothing that covers your body and still keeps you cool.

It is a good idea to find a natural sunscreen that you love for daily use on your face, neck, and arms, as these are the most at-risk parts of your body for a sunburn. If you are going to be out in the bright sun for an extended period of time, be sure to reapply sunscreen and consider wearing a hat to protect your face.

Spend time outdoors in the early morning and evening

“Aird” doesn’t always mean “hot” but as summer approaches, it stands to reason that your arid climate is experiencing a significant heat increase. Since the sun is primarily what determines the heat levels in a dry environment, it is possible that the temperature could drop 10-20 degrees as the sun sets. Try to organize your outdoor activities when the sun is past its peak and is beginning to cool down. Avoid spending significant amounts of time outdoors between 10am-3pm as this is usually the hottest part of the day.

-Susan Patterson

8 Ways to Make Water Taste Better

January 2, 2019 By Susan Patterson

Chronic dehydration is prevalent across America today. With this precious substance that comprises 60% of our bodies playing second fiddle to soda, juice, and other unhealthy beverages. Water keeps your entire body functioning smoothly and efficiently, and when dehydration settles in, other health problems and complications begin to arise.

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Top Reasons to Drink Coconut Water

October 24, 2017 By Susan Patterson

I love the way coconut water tastes. It is so refreshing and gives me energy and quenches my thirst. I have been enjoying coconut water before and after my workouts for the last five years and feel like it helps me make it through even the toughest workout.

Coconut water is the juice from the center of a young, green coconut that helps to nourish the fruit. The average green coconut makes about 0.5-1 cups of coconut water. As the coconut matures, some juice remains and the rest becomes coconut meat. Do not confuse coconut water with coconut milk which is actually made by adding water to grated coconut meat. Coconut milk contains 50% water and is high in coconut fat while coconut water is 94% water and a very small amount of fat.

What is in coconut water?

One cup of coconut water contains the following:

Carbs: 9 grams.
Fiber: 3 grams.
Protein: 2 grams.
Vitamin C: 10% of the RDI.
Magnesium: 15% of the RDI.
Manganese: 17% of the RDI.
Potassium: 17% of the RDI.
Sodium: 11% of the RDI.
Calcium: 6% of the RDI.

Antioxidant Power

You may have heard about free radicals, the unstable molecules that are produced in cells during metabolism. Production of these molecules increases where there is stress or injury. Too many free radicals in the body create a state of oxidative stress. This can damage cells and increase the risk of disease.

Research conducted on animals has indicated that antioxidants in coconut water can modify free radicals so that they no longer create a dangerous environment. In one study, rats with liver damage had significant improvement in oxidative stress when they were treated with coconut water compared to those that had no treatment. In another interesting study, rats were fed a high-fructose diet and were then treated with coconut water. Free radicals declined and the rats also experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure, triglycerides, and their insulin levels dropped.

Diabetes

Coconut water can lower blood sugar levels and is also a good source of magnesium which is known to improve insulin sensitivity. In one study diabetic rats were treated with coconut water and it was found that they maintained better blood sugar levels than other diabetic rats not treated.

Heart Health

Millions of Americans suffer from heart conditions that lead to comprised living and even early death. Amazingly, adding coconut water to your diet can help maintain a healthy heart. Researchers have found that consuming coconut water daily can reduce cholesterol as significantly as statin drugs. This is a great finding in light of the fact that statin drugs can cause some pretty serious side effects.

Hydration

Staying hydrated is important, especially after working out. Using coconut water to hydrate and replace electrolytes is one of my favorite ways to start and finish a workout. Electrolytes are minerals that help maintain proper fluid balance.They include potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium. Studies have found that coconut water is actually better than water and equal to high-electrolyte sports beverages for after exercise hydration.

So, the next time you reach for a refreshing beverage, try coconut water. You will be surprised at good it makes you feel.

-Susan Patterson