When summer arrives, a trucker’s job becomes a little more complicated. The heat and humidity can be punishing, even if you spend a good chunk of your day in an air-conditioned cab. The following tips can help you get a better handle on hydration and keep you happy and healthy while you’re doing your job:
1) Try to drink about a gallon of water per day
A gallon of water may sound like a lot to consume daily, but it’s the number doctors typically recommend. Of course, the actual number can change based on your height, weight, how much physical labor you do each day, etc. — but this is a good rule of thumb to follow.
2) Stay away from coffee and sugary drinks — or plan to drink more water
Remember that coffee, soda, energy drinks, and more do not count as hydration. They often have the opposite effect and make you more dehydrated. If you must have these beverages during the day (after all, you likely enjoy the caffeine), then you should plan to drink more water afterward.
3) Snack on fruits and veggies with high water content
A whole gallon of water can be a lot to drink during the day. You can mix things up by eating fruits and vegetables packed with water. These include cucumbers, melons, celery, and more.
4) Know the symptoms of dehydration
The most common symptoms are dry mouth, increased fatigue, and lightheadedness.
5) Carry a refillable water bottle
A great way to ensure you’re drinking enough water is to carry a large bottle or jug with you and refill it every time you stop.
6) Mix it up with sparkling or infused water
Hydrating doesn’t have to be boring. There are options to liven it up. You can, for instance, drop some cut-up fruit into your water to infuse it with flavor, buy flavor mixes you can put in the bottle, or even get some sparkling water to mix things up.
7) Keep in mind why it’s so important
Hydrating will keep you healthy and attentive when you’re behind the wheel; for that reason alone, you should be proactive. Remember, this is about your health, your truck’s safety, other motorists’ safety, and more.
