DripDrop Hydration

To stay healthy, people need to replenish the fluid in their bodies. Even if someone is just sitting in front of a computer, he or she needs to stay hydrated. In the case of athletes, hydration is especially important. Because they regularly engage in physically demanding activities, they run a greater risk of dehydration due to increased sweating. This leads to lower levels of water and electrolytes in the body, which can adversely affect performance. In extreme cases, dehydration can cause muscle spasms, nausea, convulsions and severe health problems. Because athletes have a greater chance of becoming dehydrated, they should consume an electrolyte drink or other oral rehydration solutions before and after an event or training. By enabling a person to stay active for longer, they can help improve performance and endurance. Here are the times during which athletes can be at the greatest risk of dehydration: • Dehydration During a Sporting Event: Athletes are most at risk o

Young athletes across the country anxiously await the warmer weather of spring and summer and the thrilling sports and outdoor activities which accompany the seasons. However, in their excitement and quest for measured improvement, they often neglect proper intake of rehydration drinks . Though dehydration is often viewed as a potential problem for older adults only, children are just as likely to experience its side effects—particularly following strenuous physical exertion in spring and summer heat. To avoid becoming dehydrated, athletes should always drink sufficient levels of fluids before, during and after a practice, scrimmage or game. Coaches also carry a responsibility to educate players on the importance of hydration and offer adequate time for each teammate to rest and rehydrate away from the sun. Research by Dr. Susan Yeargin at the University of South Carolina recently found that nearly 75% of young athletes—those aged 8 to 18—show up at post-school practices alread