Hydration, Immunity + Travel
One of the best parts about traveling in Japan is that reaching your destination is always an adventure. It feels like addresses are often wrong, if not relative at best.
So I've learned that when you're trying to get somewhere, it's best to not to have expectations and to enjoy the journey of getting there, because you never know what you're going to find along the way!
In this case, after a day of snowsurfing we were driving around trying to find an onsen I remembered going to last time. Ultimately we didn't end up finding it and ended up at a completely different onsen, but we did find this tapped spring. We came back after soaking in the hot baths and it was the most perfect and tastiest way to rehydrate.
Immune function is a vital physiological process. At times of resource scarcity (nutrient depletion, dehydration) and stress, immunity can be suppressed to prioritize other physiological systems.
Water is a critical resource for maintaining homeostasis (balance) and if absent, can be lethal within days. Dehydration can negatively impact energy levels and ability to sleep, thereby reducing the body's ability to heal and restore itself.
Staying adequately hydrated can ensure toxin and waste elimination, and optimizes mucosal lining health which acts as the first line of defense to prevent infection in the upper respiratory tract, as well as production of salivary antimicrobial proteins.
So when traveling, be cognitive of your water consumption to ensure your best health. My general recommendation is to aim for 1.5L per day, double that if you're drinking alcohol, coffee, or are being active, to stay adequately hydrated and prevent illness.
Want to learn more about how to travel healthy? If you are located in Toronto, please feel free to book an initial consultation with me.
Best,
Dr. Cristina Allen ND