Summer tips from WORK: What should I drink to stay hydrated?

Hydration means to supply water to keep proper fluid balance in the body. 
It is hot! You need to drink enough fluids to keep your body hydrated.  There are a lot of choices-coffee, tea, sports drinks, juice and good ol water. What do you choose?
Coffee
Coffee is not very good. Coffee has caffeine. This causes you to urinate more (lose water) at the same time you are putting water into the body. Not gaining much, are you?
Teas
Teas without caffeine may not be a bad choice because if you like the flavor you will drink more.
Cola or other Carbonated Soft Drinks
They do taste great. You are more likely to drink what you like. Although they may make you feel bloated and belch. Also, the acids used to carbonate and flavor these will damage your teeth.  Also, the sugar and caffeine in some of them will slow your absorption of water. In the long run, they aren't good for you.
Juice
The fructose, or fruit sugar, reduces water absorption in the body. Also, it is not likely that you will drink sufficient juice to keep hydrated because juices can be filling.
Sports Drinks
The main advantage of sports drinks is that people tend to drink more because they like the flavor. Also, the salt (sodium) makes you thirstier and helps with the retention of fluids.
Sports drinks don't actually hydrate better than water, but you are more likely to drink larger quantities resulting in better hydration. They do have things like salt and minerals as well.
Water
Good, quality water may be the best choice for hydration. Water is less expensive and generally more available than any other drink.  While some people like the taste of water, most people find it bland and may stop drinking water before becoming fully hydrated.

CAUTION #1
People with health conditions, such as heart problems, or people with special diets, such as low sodium diet, should consult a physician about what to do exactly to stay hydrated.

CAUTION #2
Water can be toxic if over consumed. Too much water in the body can dilute sodium and potassium in the body to dangerous levels. So don’t over consume.

Guideline: Under hot conditions or when exercising. drink about 1 cup (5-8 oz) of water every 15-20 minutes.