Hydration While You're Sick
Delta Dental of Virginia Oral Health Tip
January 2019

Rest and drink plenty of fluids: t hat's the age-old mantra given to those feeling under the weather. 

It's important to stay hydrated every day, sick or not. But  dehydration during an illness can worsen your symptoms. It could lead to sinus dryness, pressure and even nausea and vomiting. If you spike a fever, you can dehydrate yourself even faster, so it's important to replace the fluids you're losing.

What should I drink?
  • Water - Consuming plenty of water will help you replace what you're losing. And, it doesn't contain any additives that can harm your teeth.
  • Tea - Since tea contains water, it will help you stay hydrated while providing additional benefits. Many used to think that tea dehydrated you, but that myth has been debunked. Green tea, for example, can fight unfriendly mouth bacteria.
  • Soups/Broths - These are a good way to keep food down while sick. Water-based soups and broths will help hydrate you while the heat will reduce any mucus buildup.
What should I avoid?
  • Sugary drinks - Sports drinks and fruit juices may seem like a good choice when you're sick, but they don't help with hydration. The added sugar isn't mouth-friendly and can lead to tooth decay.
  • Alcohol - While there are a few tall-tale alcoholic remedies (we're looking at you, hot toddy!), drinks containing alcohol should be avoided when you're sick because alcohol dehydrates you.
Whatever beverages you choose to soothe your aches and pains, remember to rest and take it easy, too. Want more ideas for beverages to help you stay hydrated when you're sick? Here are 13 healing drinks to try when you're sick
Get more oral health tips on our  Grin microsite or  on the Delta Dental of Virginia Blog .
Download our app: