Cold caffeinated soda
Image: Beau B, Flickr (license)
Caffeinated soda is another choice that vacationers often turn to when they’re parched, but the pop won’t really do much to slake your thirst. Both sugar and caffeine are diuretics that dehydrate your body. The feeling of thirst is caused by a lower level of saliva. Drinking water will replenish your body’s fluids, fixing this problem. However, soda is highly acidic. This neutralizes the acids in soda and makes you even thirstier, so you just want to drink more.
Image: bigbirdz, Flickr (license)
Water is always a better choice. Not only will keep you healthy and hydrated throughout your day, it’s also easier on your wallet. You can get a cup of cold water for free at any counter service restaurant. Don’t hesitate to ask. Drink up!
Seriously sugary treats
Image: Edward Russell, Flickr (license)
Sugar is yet another dehydrating choice that’s hard on a body that’s already hot and sweating. Ice cream is tempting because it’s cold and smooth, but the sugar won’t do a lot for your health or comfort. Of course ice cream isn’t the only tempting treat on the menu. Disney is full of them. Oversized cupcakes, Rice Crispy treats, chocolate covered marshmallows, and caramel apples are just the beginning. Where chocolate’s involved, you’re left with a treat that’s both sugar-filled and extremely melty. If you’re planning to save part of your chocolate dessert for later, think again. The sun will make quick work of this type of snack.
Save sugary treats for a nighttime dessert when it’s cooler, the sun is gone, and you’re nearing the end of the day. During the day, stick to something lighter like fruit or veggies to help you power through the day.
Think carefully before you choose these items on a hot day at Disney. Try some of the parks lighter choices instead so you don’t end up with a stomachache, dehydration, or worse. Guzzle water, eat smart, and enjoy your time in the parks no matter what trials the weather may put you through outside.
Comments
This is solid advice. Carbs (even some white carbs) are important when walking 20,000-30,000 steps per day for as much as a week straight, and you're dead-on with that turkey leg, which actually might be fine if you can find some whole grains to supplement it. The only other advice might be to "carb load" each night for the next day with as many whole grains, fruits, and veggies you can get your hands on. As for refined sugar, I agree, save it for your late night dessert--and even then choose the cheesecake. Skip the soda the entire trip as far as I'm concerned and drink water, water, water, and more water.