The Secretary General of Public Health has recently sent a circular to all schools regarding the importance of consuming fluids during school hours.

The circular serves as a reminder to school administrators, teachers, and parents of the crucial role of fluids in maintaining good health among students.

The Importance of Hydration

Hydration is essential to maintaining bodily functions and good health. It plays a significant role in regulating body temperature, removing waste, and lubricating joints.

Proper hydration is especially crucial for children and adolescents, as they have a higher risk of dehydration due to their active lifestyles and growing bodies.

Dehydration can have serious consequences, including fatigue, headaches, constipation, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Severe dehydration can even lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.

Fluid Intake Guidelines

The circular provides guidelines for the recommended fluid intake for students. It suggests that students should drink at least eight cups of fluid per day, with an additional cup for every hour of physical activity.

The recommended fluids include water, milk, and 100% fruit juice. Soda, energy drinks, and sugary drinks should be avoided.

The circular also reminds schools that students should have easy access to drinking water throughout the school day. Drinking fountains should be in good working condition and readily available to students.

Fluids During Physical Activity

Physical activity can increase the risk of dehydration, so it’s essential for students to stay hydrated during sports and other physical activities.

The circular recommends that students drink at least one cup of fluid 15 minutes before exercise and continue to drink every 15-20 minutes during activity. After exercise, students should drink at least two cups of fluid for every pound of weight lost during physical activity.

Preventing Dehydration in Schools

There are several ways that schools can help prevent dehydration among students. Schools should provide access to clean drinking water throughout the day and encourage students to bring refillable water bottles to school.

Teachers can also remind students to drink water periodically during the day and provide water breaks during long classes or lectures.

In addition to providing drinking water, schools should also educate students about the importance of hydration and its effects on their health and performance.

Teachers can incorporate lessons about hydration and fluid intake into their health classes, and school health professionals can provide informational materials to students and parents.

Conclusion

The circular from the Secretary General of Public Health serves as an important reminder of the crucial role of fluids in maintaining good health among students.

Schools play a critical role in ensuring that students stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during physical activity. By providing access to clean drinking water and educating students about the importance of hydration, schools can help prevent dehydration and improve the health and well-being of their students.