Monitor hydration through urine colour during hot weather

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Nutritionist Dr Tan Shot Yen, M.Hum, has reminded the public to pay attention to their body’s hydration status during hot weather, suggesting that one should monitor urine colour rather than relying solely on the recommendation of drinking approximately two litres of water per day.

Recently, hot weather has been felt across several regions in Indonesia. These conditions can cause the body to lose more fluids through sweat, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities.

According to Tan, when contacted by ANTARA on Wednesday, a simple indicator to determine whether bodily fluid requirements have been met is urine colour.

“This is the parameter for whether you need more or not. If it is still clear light yellow, you are safe,” said the nutritionist, a graduate of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FKUI).

Tan also addressed the assumption that coconut water is superior to mineral water for maintaining hydration during hot weather.

“It is fine, but not mandatory,” she said.

According to her, coconut water can be consumed if available, but it is not a necessity. She also reminded that coconut water should be consumed without added sugar.

“It is not a necessity. If it is available, please go ahead, without added sugar,” she said.

When asked about coconut water with added sugar, Tan assessed that such a drink would no longer be a healthy choice.

“Well, it is no longer healthy,” she remarked.

The nutritionist, who enjoys educating the public via social media, added that mineral water remains the primary choice for meeting daily bodily fluid requirements.

“Mineral water,” she replied when asked whether plain water remains the best option for maintaining body hydration.