There are times, we don’t even think of dehydration especially during the cooler months. Truth is, you can dehydrate anytime. Dehydration in simple terms, is that the body is lacking the proper amount of fluid it needs.
I read an article a few years ago that during a race, a Marathon I think, a runner collapsed during the race and did indeed drink a lot of water, but ended up dieing anyway. The reason for this is that the runner did not replenish the electrolytes that the body needed. Water alone is not enough especially if you expend a lot of activity. You need a good recovery drink to use both before, during and after your workout/event. This applies to any type of endurance or activity. I recommend either H30 or Poweraide. Last summer (2009), I had some coffee, then later went running during a nice warm sunny day and found myself super hyper. I was talking with a friend a few days later and he said that I was dehydrated.
Here are some Symptoms, Do’s and Don’ts:
Symptoms:
1. Dry mouth
2. Not producing tears
3. Low or no urine
4. Sunken eyes
Continuing any form of exercise while dehydrated can cause heat exhaustion, variations in blood pressure, fainting, nausea and in some cases stroke.
Do’s:
1. Stay properly hydrated using a recover drink such as Poweraide or H30
(something with electrolytes)
2. Drink water (8 oz every 15 minutes if exercising, recovery drinks recommended)
Don’ts:
1. Don’t use caffeine or be careful how much you use when exercising
2. Don’t continue workout if you notice any symptoms
The importance of Electrolytes:
Sodium is the one essential electrolyte that is recommended to be consumed and replaced during extended exercise sessions for both safety and performance reasons. Multi-hour workouts, especially in the heat, can generate sodium losses (through sweating) of several grams.
Other electrolytes such as chloride, potassium,
calcium and magnesium can be safely replenished through a normal, well-balanced diet. There is
little evidence that the addition of these electrolytes to sports drinks improves athletic performance,
prevents dehydration or over hydration, or reduces the chances of muscle cramping
This information on The Importance of Electrolytes is from Powerbar.com
