People with diabetes are at high risk for dehydration and certain steps can be taken that will drastically reduce the odds of losing excess amounts of fluid.

Rising glucose (blood sugar) is the major trigger for dehydration in diabetic individuals. Once a person becomes dehydrated, glucose levels will rise even higher. Maintaining strict control of glucose levels is the best way to keep this cycle of dehydration from occurring.

In addition to controlling glucose levels, patients can also reduce the risk of dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. Recommendations vary. To help prevent dehydration, people should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses (or 1.9 liters total) of water and other noncaffeinated liquids each day, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The Institute of Medicine suggests that most men need 125 ounces (3.7 liters) and women 91 ounces (2.7 liters) a day. Individuals are advised to consult their physician about the right amount for them.

Patients who have trouble remembering to drink regularly through the day should try techniques that will help them remember. For instance, patients can buy water bottles and place them in conspicuous locations wherever they spend a lot of time during the day, such as at home, a workplace, car or school. 

Diabetic patients should be extra careful to consume water during bouts of strenuous activity such as exercise, or when outside on hot days. Water should be consumed even when the person does not feel thirsty.

Children are particularly susceptible to diabetic dehydration, mostly because their large amount of skin relative to body size and weight causes them to lose a lot of fluid through perspiration. Sicknesses such as a cold or the flu can further raise the risk of dehydration in children. This is why it is especially important for children to drink plenty of fluids during illness.

Oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte or Ricelyte are particularly helpful. These contain water and salts in proportions designed to restore fluids and electrolytes. Children should consume an ounce every 20 minutes. If the child has difficulty drinking, Popsicles can be a good alternative.

In addition to beverages, several foods also have high water content. These include:

• Vegetables such as lettuce, celery, broccoli and carrots
• Fruits such as watermelons, apples, grapefruits and orange juice
• Milk and yogurt
• Soups (low sodium)