People spend more time outdoors as the weather gets warmer. This includes at the beach, in sports or just walking around the neighborhood. As the temperature rises, so does our need to fight dehydration.

The body’s loss of water or salts is called dehydration. Fluid loss is most common during strenuous physical activities, but can also occur when you are walking, biking, gardening or other simple activities, especially in hot and humid areas. Mild dehydration can lead to muscle weakness and vertigo. According to Mayo Clinic, major hypohydration can be life-threatening and require hospitalization.

What is the best treatment for dehydration? You can avoid becoming dehydrated by drinking water or non-caffeinated beverages like Old Orchard’s FruitSense before you feel thirsty. Keep hydrated

Drink before you feel heat. Dehydration can be prevented by drinking one-and-a half cups of liquid between 20 and 30 minutes before you start exercising.

Eat often. Heat can reduce appetite. Fruits, in addition to being nutritious and delicious, are good for hydration.

Find beverages that suit your lifestyle. Consider low-calorie beverages if you’re trying to lose weight.

Moderate temperatures are best for beverages. It is more convenient to drink liquids at a moderate temperature.

Everybody knows that water is important, but some drinks are better for you. For example, hydrate exercisers can make fluids taste more appealing to children than adults.

However, not all flavored beverages are created equal. “exercise” drinks prove bathing-suit-friendly. Many so-called “rehydration beverages” and flavored water contain high sodium, empty calories, artificial sweeteners (HFCS), and high levels of sodium. It doesn’t mean you have to stop drinking flavored water. Just make sure you choose wisely. FruitSense is a fruit juice that contains 5 percent of real fruit juice. This flavor has 45 calories per cup and provides antioxidant vitamins C & E as well as essential A and B vitamins. FruitSense is diabetic-friendly and low in artificial sweeteners.

Hydration is essential for your overall well-being, regardless of whether you are a gym rat or weekend warrior. Remember to drink plenty non-caffeinated fluids when you’re working out, exercising, or just relaxing during the summer.

Amy Bragagnini is a registered dietician. She is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and from Tri-State University, Angola, IN with a Bachelor in Biology.