Hydration and Exercise

Water is sometimes positioned as our most important nutrient. After all, it makes up more than half the human body mass, and an inadequate intake results in a substantial impairment of health and function in a time frame that is far more rapid than for any other nutrient. Dehydration results in a decrease in physiological functions, exercise capacity, and sensations of well-being that is relative to the degree of fluid deficit. When this deficit is extreme or coupled with other issues, it can cause death.

This entry provides a summary of the current guidelines for fluid intake by athletes and people undertaking exercise. It notes the evolution of guidelines for fluid intake during sport, paying attention to the debate on these recommendations.

The differing views on hydration ...