It's Getting Hot Out Here

The weather is getting warmer and everybody wants to be outside.

Enjoying the sunshine

As the weather continues to get warmer, remember to stay hydrated. With sickle cell, it is imperative to drink water constantly, especially if it is hot outside. If you do not know the benefits of drinking water with sickle cell, or if you want to know how much water consumption is needed to stay hydrated with sickle cell, then continue to read along. All those questions will be answered and more.

The importance of hydration

We are moving towards the end of March and it is starting to get hot out there. We all know that water is important to the human body. However, it is extra important for all the sickle cell warriors out there to stay hydrated. Dehydration is caused when there has not been enough water consumption in the body. Because of this, it is known to most that drinking water promotes healthy blood flow.

Sickle cell and hydration

For those with sickle cell, this is extra important because, in addition to promoting a healthy blood flow for your body, the chance of red blood cells sticking together and sickling are reduced. Regular red blood cells can live up to 120 days. However, sickled cells live up for about 10 to 20 days. Because of the decreased amount of healthy red blood cells in an individual with sickle cell, it is important to drink as much water as possible to help facilitate the flow of the sickle shaped cells.

How much water should I drink?

Many may wonder how much water is needed for those with sickle cell. While it is known throughout the nation that the recommended consumption of water is eight to 10 glasses, doctors suggest a little bit more for our sickle cell warriors. Please note that the average eight to 10 glasses a day is a great start; however, doctors have broken down water consumption for those with sickle cell by their weight class. Doctors suggest the following:¹

• 100 pounds: 9 to 13 glasses of water
• 130 pounds: 10 to 15 glasses of water
• 150 pounds: 11 to 17 glasses of water
• 175+ pounds: 12 to 18 glasses of water

Editor's Note: Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any lifestyle changes
Drinking all of this water in a 24-hour span can seem a bit overwhelming, but if you break it down in small portions throughout the day can help.

Other sources of water

There are other ways to increase water consumption in addition to drinking water on its own. Fruits and vegetables contain a lot of water in them. For example, a watermelon is approximately 90% water! So if you are adding fruits and vegetables into your diet, your hydration will increase.

Another innovative way to continue to stay hydrated is to make water ice pops. Some people may feel bloated as they consume all that water throughout the day. Eating the water may be a better solution, and it could be more fun. Freezing your water and turning it into an ice pop does wonders, especially for little children or toddlers with sickle cell.

Water

In conclusion, water can be considered one of the greatest assets for individuals with sickle cell. It can help prevent a crisis amid hot weather. Additionally, water is needed for the blood cells to successfully flow through the body. Moreover, there is more than one way for an individual to consume their water intake. Finally, understanding how important water is, especially during those hot days, will keep your body operating accordingly. Water is also very refreshing! Make sure you take care of yourself this spring and summer. After all, it is getting hot out there!