POTS Hydration Tips And Tricks
When considering nutrition options, what counts as hydration options? Options with a high water content! These include soups, juices, tea, coffee (though please be mindful of how caffeine can negatively impact POTS symptoms), milk/non-dairy milk, water, carbonated water, and smoothies (not inclusive of all). Below, you will see that we have put together a list of 9 different tips and tricks you can use to help enhance your hydration options when navigating each day with an illness POTS.
1.) Sip on drinks regularly throughout the day instead of gulping large quantities less often.
2.) Always have a water bottle with you, and consider using a straw if you find that straws are preferred and allow you to drink more throughout the day.
3.) Consider flavoring your water with a splash of juice or flavored electrolyte supplement.
4.) Get creative with different hydration options! You can experiment with smoothies, protein shakes, decaf coffee, herbal teas, and broths.
5.) Consider using hydration apps or scheduled reminders/timers. Some hydration app options can be found in our Helpful Applications website section.
6.) If ok with your medical team, try some of the different electrolyte and oral rehydration solutions that are available to see if there is one that works better for your individual needs! See our Electrolyte Solutions section for some different potential options.
7.) Consider talking to your team about the incorporation of salt tablets or capsules, depending on your individual needs.
8.) Talk to your medical team about other options, such as IV fluids, or parenteral/enteral nutrition options when needed.
9.) Ask your doctor and/or dietitian how much fluid you should aim for daily.
Contributions made by: Katie Mednick, Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Expert
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