Driving a semi or other big truck is a huge responsibility, and drivers need to be at their physical and mental best when sitting in a truck seat on long hauls. Staying properly hydrated can help your overall health and also ensure you stay alert on the highway.
The human body has to have water. Our organs and tissues need it to function properly. When we’re properly hydrated, our energy levels are better, and we’re more awake and alert. When dehydration occurs, some common symptoms may include headache, fatigue, and dizziness—all conditions that truckers want to avoid to ensure their safety and that of other motorists.
It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re traveling on the road, especially on long trips. For truckers who want to stay properly hydrated, these tips can be helpful:
- Eat fruits – Most fruits have a lot of water content and can help you stay properly hydrated. Fruits are also full of fiber and other important nutrients, and increasing your diet’s fruit content can help you stay healthy.
- Get a health tracker – Most smartphones can download health tracking apps that can help you keep up with how much sleep you’re getting, how much walking you’re doing, etc. Getting a health tracker and getting in the habit of logging your water consumption can provide a helpful behavioral reinforcement for increasing your water consumption.
- Keep water onboard – If you’ve got a cooler or a dorm fridge in your truck, keeping a jug of water onboard will give you anytime access to water when you’re on the road.
- Avoid sodas – Sodas won’t hydrate you as well as water, and excessive soda consumption can contribute to obesity and diabetes—two health problems unfortunately common to the trucking industry. Stick to the pure stuff, with occasional soda drinks as a reward or when you need a caffeine jolt.
- Get a convenient cup – Having a cup that’s convenient to take with you and use while you’re traveling can make staying hydrated a lot easier. Find a cup that’s sturdy and that can keep water cold for extended periods.
- Prevent dehydration – Keep from getting dehydrated by ensuring your truck cabin is cool and comfortable. Ventilated truck seats and other accessories can help.
Suburban Seating & Safety sells truck accessories that promote driver health and safety. Check out the company’s online store today to find the best custom truck seats and other gear for your truck.