We’ve heard the rule over and over again: our bodies need at least eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy and hydrated. For some of us, however, eight glasses may seem almost impossible. For others, it is not enough. The truth is that each of our bodies is different and has different maintenance needs. However, when traveling in Breckenridge, Colorado, or in any high-altitude area, it is imperative to be adequately hydrated. While it may seem like drinking water is easy, you might be surprised at how much there really is to know.

• What’s all this fuss? In a high-altitude city like Breckenridge, the lower air pressure can cause moisture to evaporate from your skin and lungs. As a result, if you don’t take care of yourself, dehydration and altitude sickness can take over, not only leaving you nauseated and dizzy, but can become dangerous as your alertness is affected. However, adequate hydration generates health benefits for the immune system, skin, digestive system, mood and even helps to lose weight. Since you’ll likely take advantage of the many outdoor activities Breckenridge offers, proper hydration will also boost your energy level.
• How much is enough? Following the eight glasses a day rule can be tricky, especially when one person’s glass of water is a different size than another’s. Also, each of us has a different body type and size, so we need something a little more specialized for us as individualized. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. So if you weigh 160 pounds, you’ll need 80 ounces a day to stay adequately hydrated.
• What about caffeine and alcohol? Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages work exactly the opposite of water by dehydrating our bodies. Still, there are some great coffee shops in Breckenridge, as well as a plethora of pubs with delicious microbrews on tap. It’s okay to have caffeine and alcohol (in moderation), but you’ll need to drink an additional eight ounces of water for every caffeinated or alcoholic beverage you drink each day. And while it’s tempting to enjoy a hot cup of coffee while admiring the view from your Breckenridge condo, avoid making coffee or any other form of caffeine the first thing you drink in the morning. By starting your day with a tall glass of water, you’ll refresh what you’ve lost overnight and prevent morning dehydration. Also consider avoiding alcohol and caffeine for the first day or so you are acclimating to the altitude.
• How can I make this easy? If you find it difficult to fit all this water consumption into your daily routine, try making water an accessory. Carry a stainless steel water bottle (such as a SIGG) with you at all times, taking sips throughout the day. Keep a bottle in your pack when you hike, ski, snowboard, or cruise through the town of Breckenridge. Keep one handy at your desk at work and another nearby when you’re at home. Remember that glass or stainless steel bottles are much safer storage methods than plastic, which seeps into the water as the bottle ages. (Plastic water bottles that have a 1 or 2 symbol on the bottom are fine to drink once, but you should recycle rather than reuse.)
• How does this translate to the mountains? At 6,000 feet above sea level, you’ll breathe in and out twice as much humidity as you’re used to at sea level. Considering that Breckenridge has a base altitude of 9,600 feet, you’ll need even more than your daily dose of water. Also, participating in any athletic activity will also lead you to sweat more moisture. Your best bet is to spend a day acclimating to the altitude. Drink water throughout the day and pay attention to your body. If you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, be sure to rest and keep your body running with more water.

Staying hydrated is a lifestyle. When visiting Breckenridge, it’s needed more than ever. So slow down and keep that water bottle close. Your body will thank you in no time!