H20
Jul 22, 2022
Hydrate NOW before you have to REHYDRATE later!
Always start hydrating hours before your adventure. If you wait until you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
According to the American Hiking Society (AHS), the "best way to prevent dehydration is to consciously drink water SLOWLY over several hours before intense exercise." AHS also says, "When the weather is brutally hot, and your body sweats profusely, water alone is insufficient. Sweating out salts diminishes your body's ability to regulate liquids. Trail mixes, corn chips, or other salty snacks can help, but not enough. Sports drinks containing salts, potassium, and electrolytes can be effective but often contain large amounts of sugar."
I know it's hard to believe that hydration for winter hiking may even be more important than in hot climates. Cold or dry air can strip water from our bodies faster than warm, humid air. Thus, it is imperative to drink more water during a winter hike.
Remember, water freezes, so keep your water bottle inside your coat. Be sure it is tightly sealed. A leaky water bottle can lead to a life-threatening situation if your clothing or sleeping bag becomes wet.
Also, avoid drinking caffeinated beverages because they act as diuretics.
What are a few of the earliest signs that you may be in the early stages of dehydration? Well, here's the "short list" to get you started:
- Headache: If ignored, the victim is subject to temperature-related illnesses such as heat strokes and hyperthermia.
- Hydration can cause hikers to become confused or disoriented.
- Dehydration can also present as loss of appetite from nausea and dizziness.
- Stopping sweating during your activity can also indicate an on-set dehydration.
This is a brief description or discussion of dehydration. I hope you never experience any of the symptoms or effects. Stay ahead of the effects by eliminating the cause. Make smart, educated decisions. Remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate before you have to try to rehydrate.
See you on the trail. Bring water!
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