We’ve heard the rule over and over again: our bodies need at least eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy and hydrated. For some of us, however, eight glasses may seem almost impossible. For others, it is not enough. The truth is that each of our bodies is different and has different maintenance needs. However, when traveling in Breckenridge, Colorado, or any high-altitude area, getting enough hydration is a must. While it may seem like drinking water is straightforward, you might be surprised how much there really is to know.
- What is all this fuss about? In a high-altitude city like Breckenridge, lower air pressure can cause moisture to evaporate from the skin and lungs. As a result, if you don’t take care of yourself, dehydration and altitude sickness can invade you, which will not only leave you feeling nauseous and dizzy, but can become dangerous as your alertness is affected. However, proper hydration has health benefits for the immune system, skin, digestive system, mood, and even weight loss. Since you are likely to take advantage of the many outdoor activities that Breckenridge offers, adequate hydration will also increase your energy level.
- How much is enough? Following the eight glasses a day rule can get tricky, especially when one person’s glass of water is a different size than another. Also, each of us has a different body type and size, so we need something a little more specialized for us as individualized. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. So if you weigh 160 pounds, you will need 80 ounces a day to stay adequately hydrated.
- What about caffeine and alcohol? Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages work exactly the opposite of water by dehydrating our bodies. Still, there are some great coffee shops in Breckenridge, as well as plenty of pubs with tasty craft beers on tap. It’s okay to consume caffeine and alcohol (in moderation), but you will need to drink an additional eight ounces of water for each caffeinated or alcoholic drink you drink each day. And while it’s tempting to enjoy a hot cup of coffee while admiring the view from your Breckenridge condo, avoid making coffee or another form of caffeine the first thing you drink in the morning. Starting the day with a glass of water will refresh what you lost during the night and prevent morning dehydration. Also consider staying away from alcohol and caffeine for the first day or so to acclimate to the altitude.
- How can I make this easy? If you find it difficult to fit all of this drinking water into your daily routine, try making water an accessory. Carry a stainless steel water bottle (like a SIGG) with you at all times, sipping throughout the day. Keep a bottle in your backpack when hiking, skiing, boarding, or cruising around the city of Breckenridge. Keep one handy on your desk and one close by when you’re home. Remember that glass or stainless steel bottles are much safer storage methods than plastic, which seeps into the water as the bottle wears out. (Plastic water bottles that have a 1 or 2 symbol on the bottom are fine to drink once, but you should recycle rather than reuse.)
- How does this translate to the mountains? At 6,000 feet above sea level, you will perspire and exhale twice as much moisture as you are used to at sea level. Considering Breckenridge has a base altitude of 9,600 feet, you will need even more than your daily dose of water. Additionally, participating in any athletic activity will also lead to you sweating more moisture. Your best option is to spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude. Drink water throughout the day and pay attention to your body. If you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, be sure to rest and keep your body running with more water.
Staying hydrated is a lifestyle. When visiting Breckenridge, it is more of a must than ever. So slow down and keep that bottle of water close by. Your body will thank you in no time!