Fall is Upon Us! Here's How to Stay Happy, Healthy and Hydrated--Just in Time for the Holidays.

Dear Dr. Wonson:
Now that fall has arrived, my skin feels dry and my lips are chapped. Even though I try to drink fluids throughout the day, I think I am dehydrated. What should I do?
Drying Up in California

Dear Drying Up:
Itchy skin and dry lips are the first signs of dehydration, so it appears as if you may not be taking in enough fluids. During the fall, the late summer heat soaks up moisture in the air, making it even more important to hydrate internally and externally. Here are a few tips to stay properly hydrated during the year's driest season.
Dr. Wonson D.C., L.Ac.

What is dehydration?
Dehydration is the lack of adequate body fluids to carry on normal body functions. Since water makes up 70 percent of your muscles and 75 percent of your brain tissues, the only thing your body craves more than water is oxygen. In order to function properly, your body's vital organs, including the kidneys, brain and heart, require minimum levels of water. Essential electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium chloride, are also necessary to transport moisture to your body's tissues. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, scratchy skin, dry lips and tongue, bloodshot or sunken eyes, wrinkles and lowered disease resistance.

What causes dehydration?
Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water than it takes in. Throughout the day, you use vital fluids that have to be constantly replenished. Exercise, alcohol, caffeinated drinks such as coffee, illness, dieting, and airtight environments like airplanes and high-rise office buildings all dry up precious body fluids -- causing the balance of water in your body to become unstable.

How can I treat dehydration?
The best way to treat dehydration is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. When you deprive your body of water, you start a negative physiological chain reaction that quickly spreads throughout your body. To prevent dehydration, drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Juicy fruits such as pears, which are 80 percent water, are especially good for moisturizing the lungs and respiratory system. (Remember: since fruit contains sugar, limit your intake to two pieces a day.) Keep bottled water readily on-hand at home and in the office, and make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise. It is also important to hydrate your body externally. Spritz your face with an empty perfume atomizer, and use moisturizers scented with sandalwood and lavender on your entire body. Specialized herbs are also available to add and maintain extra levels of moisture on your skin's surface.