Monday, June 8, 2009

Healthy Habits for the Young Athlete

"Water is the only drink for a wise man."

--Henry David Thoreau



Dehydration- excessive loss of water from the body or from an organ or bodily part.

In the life of every young athlete it is important to make sure he or she is properly hydrated. In general one cup of fluid or water is needed for every 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity. The key in avoiding dehydration is to drink before thirst sets in.

Sports drinks are designed to provide energy and replace electrolytes such as sodium and potassium that athletes tend to lose in sweat. Although sports drinks are popular and taste good water is a sufficient source to keep kids hydrated.

Typically your child has enough carbs to serve as energy for up to 90 minutes of exercise. In any case lost electrolytes can be replenished by a good well balanced meal after physical activity.

It is best to avoid soda as a source of hydration. Caffeine can act as a diuretic and lead to an increased risk of dehydration.

With all the choices out there to keep our bodies hydrated it seems the best source is the most natural and obvious choice. Water, it is what we are made of.

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